Key Takeaways
- Romanov signed an 8-year, $50 million deal with the Islanders, calling the length and value “a surprise.”
- He addressed rumors about Boston and Philly interest, praised Lou Lamoriello’s legacy, and welcomed the new CBA’s relaxed dress code.
- Romanov offered advice to Canadiens rookie Ivan Demidov, recalling his own early years in Montreal and stressing the need to stay grounded.
Alexander Romanov #28 (c) and the New York Islanders (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
The New York Islanders didn’t just lock up a cornerstone defenseman this week — they doubled down on stability, grit, and quiet leadership. With an eight-year, $50 million extension, 25-year-old Alexander Romanov became a long-term pillar for the Islanders’ blue line and a clear part of the team’s identity moving forward.
And for Romanov, the commitment is mutual.
“I’m really happy. I’m grateful the team believes in me and appreciates what I bring,” he told RG. “I’m especially glad that the new general manager [Mathieu Darche] recognized my efforts and the work I’ve put in. I’m also very thankful to my agent [Dan Milstein]. Honestly, I couldn’t be happier about signing this deal.”
The deal, announced on June 30, will carry Romanov through the 2032–33 season at a cap hit of $6.25 million. For the Moscow native — who led all Islanders defensemen in hits (147) and blocked shots (165) last season — the contract wasn’t expected, either in length or value.
“I wasn’t expecting anything longer than six, and I definitely didn’t expect this kind of number,” he admitted. “Now the main thing is to hit the ice and prove I’m worth it.”
While many young athletes find financial windfalls disorienting, Romanov speaks with clarity about what comes next.
“I don’t want to waste it. I want to invest wisely so that after my career, I can live comfortably,” he said.
“I don’t want to be another guy who blows it all. I’m counting on the help of Dan [Milstein] and a few trusted investors to make the right choices. My goal is simple: not to lose the money.”
It’s a mindset that mirrors Romanov’s on-ice presence — calculated, composed, and consistently focused on the bigger picture.
Shutting Down the Rumors
In the lead-up to the contract announcement, rumors had linked Romanov to possible interest from teams like Boston and Philadelphia. He was quick to shoot that down.
“I was shocked when I heard that. I immediately texted Dan Milstein and asked, ‘What is this?’ He told me it wasn’t true,” Romanov said. “Both Boston and Philly are already set on the left side of their defense. From what I understand, they weren’t even interested.”
His heart, clearly, was in New York.
“I really like the guys on the team. The organization treats its players with a lot of care and respect — it’s rare to feel that kind of support from absolutely everyone, including the coaching staff,” he said. “I also love where we are. Our fans are amazing, and I enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s close to New York but still quiet and comfortable.”
A New Era in More Ways Than One
Romanov’s new deal comes amid significant changes for the Islanders. Longtime general manager Lou Lamoriello stepped down in April, closing a tenure marked by strict discipline and an emphasis on culture. His departure hit the locker room hard.
“It was emotional. He’s done so much for this organization. I saw firsthand how committed he was to making the team better,” Romanov reflected. “We were all a bit stunned. It really felt like the end of an era, and it was hard to believe because he still had one year left on his contract. Everyone respected him deeply.”
And yes — Romanov did see that viral meme of Lamoriello’s icy stare during warmups.
“Yeah, I saw it — and there’s actually a story behind it!” Romanov laughed. “He was staring at the scoreboard, where they were showing a huge close-up of me. I think he thought one of the camera guys was standing on our bench to film it, so he squinted to see if someone who wasn’t supposed to be there had snuck in before the game.”
Hair, Suits, and the New CBA
One of the most widely discussed elements of the newly ratified CBA — which will take effect in 2026 — is the removal of the mandatory dress code for players on game days. For Romanov, just like for Utah defenseman Mikhail Sergachev, it’s a win.
“Really? I didn’t know that — thank you! That’s amazing!” he said when told of the change. “Honestly, me and suits don’t mix well. A suit looks terrible on me. I’m not Matthew Barzal — suits fit him like he’s a mannequin.”
Still, Romanov offered a measured take.
As for his own style plans?
“Probably not like in my Montreal days! I don’t think I’ll grow it out that much, but it’ll be longer than what was allowed with the Islanders before. One thing’s for sure — the beard is coming back!”
Eyes on the Future — and the Cup
Romanov hasn’t yet met top draft pick Matthew Schaefer, whom the Islanders selected first overall this summer, but he’s hopeful about the 18-year-old defenseman’s future.
“I haven’t met him yet — he’s got a lot going on right now. But I’ve seen his highlights, and he’s clearly a very talented player,” Romanov said. “It’s exciting to have the top pick join the team. I hope he can help us win the Stanley Cup. Of course, he’ll have to prove himself first — nothing’s guaranteed.”
Asked what other teams can learn from the Florida Panthers, who just won their second straight Stanley Cup, Romanov didn’t hesitate.
“Winning a Cup is a long process. Florida didn’t get there overnight. They lost a final first — that taught them a lesson. Then they came back and won,” he said. “Even last year’s final, where they almost gave up a 3–0 lead, probably taught them something.”
“Just look at Game 4 of the Final — they were still battling with 15 seconds left and managed to tie it. Sure, they lost in overtime, but the point is, they never stopped believing. That kind of belief is powerful.”
Advice for Demidov: Keep Your Focus
Romanov hasn’t forgotten his own early years in Montreal, and now he’s watching another Russian star — Ivan Demidov — enter the spotlight in the same city.
“He just needs to keep working hard, the way he always has. Don’t get caught up in the praise — in Montreal, the line between love and hate is very thin,” Romanov said. “He’s a great player and a great fit for the Canadiens. They’ve got a strong rebuild going with lots of talent.”
“He just needs to focus on doing his job, listening to the coaches, and tuning out the noise. He’s already a star there — now it’s about staying focused on the game.”
“As for everyday life — he won’t have any problems. In Montreal, you’ll only pay at a restaurant maybe three times out of ten. And if your name is Ivan Demidov, life is practically free. It’s all in his hands.”
With a new deal signed, leadership role solidified, and a deeper-than-ever bond to Long Island, Romanov isn’t just preparing for his next shift. He’s ready to shape the next era of Islanders hockey.
