New York Islanders
Jonny Boychuk’s Status for Game 2 Remains Unknown
There were no new updates on Johnny Boychuk Sunday afternoon when Barry Trotz addressed reporters over Zoom.
The Islanders defenseman left Game 1 early in the second period after taking a high hit from Mike Matheson. Boychuk did not finish the remainder of the 2-1 win for New York.
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“No, nothing,” Trotz responded when asked if there was an update on Boychuk. “we’ll see where he is at tomorrow. It was a day off for everybody.”
Boychuk was roughed up quite a bit during his limited time on the ice. In the first period, Boychuk took a hit 1:29 in that he was slow to get up from as well.
Five minute major and game misconduct penalty on Mike
Matheson for a shoulder to the head of Johnny Boychuk. Boychuk down the tunnel. Penalty is being reviewed pic.twitter.com/DKkQyFlBgv— NHL Player Safety Watch (@NHLSafetyWatch) August 1, 2020
If Boychuk is unable to play in Game 2 on Tuesday then the Islanders will have to turn to their pool of depth defensemen they have with them. The two most likely replacements for Boychuk will be Andy Greene or Noah Dobson, with Greene likely getting a shot firs because of his experience.
Greene has 50 games of playoff experience under his belt, which includes a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in 2012.
The Islanders have a pretty deep defensive roster aside from Greene and Dobson. Thomas Hickey and Sebastion Aho are also available should they be needed.
The Islanders bench boss noted that the competition among them to get playing time bodes well for the team.
“If Johnny is not available then the next man up will be put in there. The great thing about competition, when you have lots of competition, once you get in there you don’t want to come out,” Trotz said
Regardless of whether Johnny Boychuk is in the lineup or not, the Islanders believe there will be a quality player in that spot.
“We’re confident in whoever plays,” Devon Toews said. “It’s going to be a struggle to get in the lineup and stay in the lineup. We’re excited to see what everyone can bring.”Â