New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov could rejoin the lineup before the conclusion of the regular season, general manager Mathieu Darche said on Monday. The 26-year-old has been out since November 18, 2025, after sustaining a shoulder injury in a 3-2 win over the Dallas Stars following a late-period hit from Mikko Rantanen. The injury required surgery, causing him to miss the last 58 games.
After skating in a non-contact jersey for previous sessions, Romanov will take part in full-contact practices for the first time this week.
“There is potentially a chance for the last game or two of the season that he might be back,” said Darche. “This week is the first week he’s going to do full practice with contact, so sometimes it takes a little while also to get back at it.”
Over 15 appearances this season, Romanov has recorded one assist, 17 shots on goal, 31 blocked shots, and 31 hits.
New York plays four remaining regular-season games, starting Thursday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Newly hired head coach Peter DeBoer rotated defensive pairs throughout Monday’s practice, while top forwards Anders Lee, Bo Horvat, and Anthony Duclair led the first line. Worth mentioning, Semyon Varlamov took part in a full practice for the first time since undergoing bilateral knee replacements in November 2024, although he will not return this season.
Darche also mentioned the potential call-up of AHL Bridgeport’s Victor Eklund, who has six points in four games since arriving from Sweden. With the Islanders needing victories in the closing games to secure a playoff spot, Romanov’s timely return could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s defensive depth.
New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov could rejoin the lineup before the conclusion of the regular season, general manager Mathieu Darche said on Monday. The 26-year-old has been out since November 18, 2025, after sustaining a shoulder injury in a 3-2 win over the Dallas Stars following a late-period hit from Mikko Rantanen.