Islanders Grant Anthony Duclair's Request After Coach's Public Criticism

The announcement comes two days after Roy publicly eviscerated Duclair’s performance in a 4–1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, during which the winger saw limited ice time.

“He was god-awful,” Roy said Tuesday. “He had a bad game, and that’s why I didn’t play him a lot and he’s lucky to be in the lineup. Sorry if I lose it on him, but that’s how I feel.”

Duclair has struggled since returning from a torn groin in December, recording just seven goals and four assists in 44 games while averaging 15 minutes, 3 seconds of ice time.

Before signing a four-year, $14 million deal with the Islanders last summer, Duclair had already spent time playing under Roy at the QMJHL’s Quebec Remparts.

Roy, in his first year behind the Islanders’ bench, supported Duclair’s signing last summer, according to The Athletic's Arthur Staple.

What this means for Duclair’s short- and long-term future in New York is unclear with his leave-of-absence duration undisclosed.

The 29-year-old is under contract through 2028, while Roy and GM Lou Lamoriello are also expected to return to the franchise next season.

The Islanders have lost six consecutive games and sit five points out of a playoff spot with eight games remaining, carrying a 32-32-10 record into Friday's matchup against the Minnesota Wild.