UPHEAVAL: Islanders Roster in Flux After Alexander Romanov Injury—Who STEPS UP Next?

The New York Islanders face major adversity as Alexander Romanov is sidelined 6-8 months with a torn ACL. Can Peter DeBoer’s defensive unit compensate for this loss, or will Romanov’s absence reshape the Islanders’ playoff hopes? Gil Martin explores immediate solutions—like sliding Matthew Schaefer back to left defense, activating Mat Barzal, and evaluating options such as Scott Mayfield and Matthew Kessel—while examining long-term roster implications as the NHL trade deadline looms.Key storylines include updates on Matthew Barzal’s knee injury, Vladimir Dravecky’s entry-level contract, and a preview of the Isles’ clash against the Chicago Blackhawks, who are still without Connor Bedard. Gil highlights Chicago’s defensive struggles, Islanders’ power play opportunities, and the developmental outlook for top prospects. Plus, the Islanders’ birthday of the day spotlights Alexei Zhitnik. Can the Islanders’ depth and coaching spark a turnaround—or does this injury set the tone for a transition season?All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.IndeedNow, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.Butcher BoxIf you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONNHL to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.KALSHIToday's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.FanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.  FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.