Islanders Coach Confronts Stars Player After Controversial Boarding Hit
During a tense NHL game on Tuesday night, Dallas Stars forward Mikko Rantanen was ejected for a controversial boarding hit on New York Islanders defenseman Alex Romanov. The incident occurred in the final minute of regulation, with Rantanen sending Roman, who was the Islands’ leading scorer with 27 points, crashing into the boards from behind, resulting in a 5-minute major penalty and his removal from the game. New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy immediately confronted Rantanen, issuing a sharp verbal attack in the aftermath. Roy, known for his fiery demeanor, called the play ‘disrespectful’ and emphasized that such actions should not be part of the game. Although he later calmed down, Roy reiterated his concerns about the hit, expressing hope for Romanov’s recovery and criticizing the lack of restraint in the play.
Stars coach Glen Gulutzan provided a different perspective after the game, claiming that Rantanen, who is the Stars’ leading scorer, was likely clipped by Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield, leading to incidental contact with Romanov. Despite the controversy, the game concluded with a 3-2 victory for the New York Islanders, as a last-second goal attempt by Wyatt Johnston was disallowed due to goalie interference. The NHL Department of Player Safety will review the incident, though reports suggest Rantanen may not face further disciplinary action. Romanov’s condition remains uncertain, though he did not require hospitalization. The incident has intensified scrutiny over player safety in the league, with calls for stricter enforcement of rules against dangerous hits.