In a stunning display of frustration, New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy did not hold back in his criticism of veteran forward Anthony Duclair following the team’s disheartening 4-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 1, 2025, at UBS Arena. This defeat marked the Islanders' sixth consecutive loss, significantly dimming their playoff aspirations.
Roy was particularly scathing in his assessment of Duclair's performance, stating, "He was god-awful. He had a bad game. That’s why I didn’t play him a lot. He is lucky to be in the lineup. Sorry if I lose it on him right now, but that’s just how I feel.” The coach's remarks were as pointed as they were revealing, underscoring the pressure building on the team as they struggle to maintain a foothold in the playoff race.
Duclair’s ice time dwindled to just 12 minutes and 15 seconds during the game, a stark indication of his lackluster performance, which included a minus-1 rating and no points. His struggles have been a recurring theme this season; in 44 games, he has managed only seven goals and four assists. This is a far cry from the expectations set when he signed a four-year, $14 million contract with the Islanders last offseason, a deal that came with high hopes of bolstering the team’s scoring depth.
Roy’s dissatisfaction with Duclair is not new. Earlier in March, after a 7-4 loss to the Nashville Predators, he expressed similar concerns, saying, "I’m not happy with his play. I expect more from him." At that time, Roy attributed some of Duclair’s struggles to his recovery from a lower-body injury that had sidelined him for 28 games. However, after the latest defeat, Roy made it clear that excuses would no longer suffice.
“He’s not skating, he’s not competing, he’s not moving his feet,” Roy elaborated. “He’s not playing up to what we expect from him. I think it’s an effort thing.” This candid assessment raises questions about Duclair’s commitment and performance level, especially as the season reaches its critical juncture.
The Islanders, now five points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, have only eight games left to turn their fortunes around. The situation is dire, and the pressure is mounting not just on Duclair, but on the entire team. The loss to Tampa Bay was a significant blow, as the Isles had hoped to capitalize on a favorable schedule to secure a playoff berth.
Duclair’s first season back in New York has been marred by inconsistency and injury. After missing the start of the season due to a torn groin, he returned just before Christmas but has struggled to regain his form. In the 39 games since his return, he has tallied just five goals and three assists, a disappointing output for a player who previously scored 31 and 24 goals in his last two full seasons.
Roy’s comments come at a time when the Islanders are also facing significant changes within the organization. At the recent trade deadline, the team made the decision to send longtime player Brock Nelson to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a future first-round pick and top prospect Calum Ritchie. This move reflects a shift in strategy as the Islanders look to rebuild and reshape their roster for the future.
Lou Lamoriello, the Islanders' general manager, is known for his pragmatic approach, and as he turns 83 in October, the urgency to improve the team’s performance is palpable. While Roy signed a two-year deal last January and received a multiyear extension this past offseason, the stakes are high for both the coach and the players as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
Despite the mounting challenges, Roy remains committed to pushing his players to elevate their game. His fiery demeanor as a coach has been evident since he took over the Islanders' bench, and he has not shied away from holding players accountable. The recent comments about Duclair are a testament to his belief that the team must collectively step up if they wish to remain competitive.
As the Islanders prepare for their next game, the focus will undoubtedly be on Duclair and whether he can respond to the challenges laid out by his coach. The road ahead is steep, and the pressure is on not just Duclair, but the entire roster to rally together and fight for their playoff lives. With the postseason on the line and time running out, the urgency could ignite a much-needed spark in the team.
With Roy’s candid remarks ringing in their ears, the Islanders must find a way to turn their fortunes around. The upcoming games will be critical, and all eyes will be on Duclair to see if he can shake off the criticism and deliver the performance the Islanders desperately need. The clock is ticking, and the stakes have never been higher.
