Islanders' Romanov Progresses Post-Shoulder Surgery, Returns to Ice for Shots

New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov is showing progress in his recovery from right shoulder surgery, having returned to the ice to take shots for the first time since his November 18 injury. The 26-year-old sustained the injury after a hit from Mikko Rantanen and underwent surgery with a 5-6 month recovery timeline. Islanders GM Mathieu Darche suggested a potential return in the mid-rounds of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Romanov, who recorded one assist in 15 games this season, is in the first year of an eight-year, $6.25 million contract.