Alex Romanov Inks Eight-Year Extension With Islanders

Alex Romanov Inks Eight-Year Extension With Islanders

The New York Islanders locked up one of their most physical blueliners for the long haul, signing Alex Romanov to an eight-year extension worth $6.25 million per season. Known for his hard-hitting style and defensive edge, Romanov has become a key piece of the Islanders’ blue line over the last three seasons. The deal solidifies their left side for the foreseeable future and shows just how much faith the organization has in his continued growth. It’s a big commitment—but one the Isles clearly believe will pay off. Elliotte Friedman originally confirmed the news, and the terms are below:

Hearing the #Isles are signing 25 y/o RFA LD Romanov to 8 year $6.25M Cap Hit contract

20P in 64 GP

Deal would cover 2 RFA & 6 UFA seasonshttps://t.co/bpuTvDmDJP

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) June 30, 2025

While not a perfect player, Romanov is still only 25 and plays with a very physical edge. His skating is above average, and it is one of his biggest tools. He could use some refining on his puck skills, especially since his former D partner, Noah Dobson, is a Montreal Canadien. Even without much offensive production, his ability to lay big hits and eat minutes are what primarily earned him this deal.

Nevertheless, in a rising cap landscape, you will see lots of long term moves like this go down. Even if you think it’s a little rich, it fits right in line with what the market offers. Kevin Bahl just got paid in Calgary, and the Predators decided Nic Hague was worth $5.5 million per season. Mathieu Darche and Patrick Roy clearly see him as a fixture for their top four:

Alex Romanov, signed 8x$6.25M by NYI, is a physical defenceman with some puckmoving ability. #Isles pic.twitter.com/GbFbmtjSrB

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 30, 2025

It’s also worth noting the Russian connection taking place on Long Island. Along with goalie Ilya Sorokin, winger Max Tsyplakov is another who likely has a connection with his fellow countryman. It’s a gamble no doubt, but the deal will at least keep Romanov around for his prime years. The next order of business is to find a way to supplement the right side, unless Roy is comfortable with some guys playing on their off side.

Shades Of Lou?

Naturally, there will be reactions harkening to the previous era of Islanders management. Lou Lamoriello handed out a number of deals that included long term and a lower AAV. Think of Adam Pelech, Ryan Pulock, Pierre Engvall, and the aforementioned Sorokin. Darche has the luxury of a cap ceiling that will skyrocket for the next half decade. While it’s worth $6.25 million in 2025 with a $95 million ceiling, it will eat up a much smaller piece of the pie over the years. In the event it busts, it won’t be the end of the world. It’s worth noting that Romanov received considerable interest as an RFA for his skating and physical abilities.

Alex Pietrangelo Is Officially LTIR Bound

While Alex Romanov still has some holes in his game, the Islanders clearly view him as a foundational piece in their retooling effort. Top prospect Matthew Schaefer is also now in the mix after going first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. His arrival suddenly makes their left side very stacked. It’s a long-term play, but one that signals the Isles are serious about building a revamped core from the blue line out.

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