Anthony Duclair Says He’s Moved On After Turbulent Islanders Season

Anthony Duclair said he is ready to move past the turmoil that ended his season early with the New York Islanders, telling reporters that he and coach Patrick Roy have spoken and are on the same page.

Duclair — speaking publicly for the first time since Roy’s critical remarks about his play precipitated a leave of absence — said his offseason was largely devoted to rehabbing a torn groin he suffered in the fifth game of last season and preparing to return to the lineup.

The forward did not elaborate on the specifics of the conversations with Roy but emphasized that both sides had moved past the episode. The leave of absence followed public comments from Roy that were widely reported as harsh criticism of Duclair’s play and coincided with the end of Duclair’s season. He said the focus since then has been on recovery and getting his body right.

Duclair’s injury occurred early in the season, sidelining him after the team’s fifth game. His statement reiterated that extensive rehabilitation was required and that much of his offseason work centered on regaining full health. He did not detail a timeline for his return beyond describing his ongoing recovery.

The exchange between player and coach drew attention during an otherwise difficult season for the Islanders, and Duclair’s remarks on his health and his conversation with Roy are likely to be watched closely as training camp approaches. Team officials have not released additional comment on the matter.

Duclair’s readiness to move forward shifts the narrative from the interpersonal dispute to his physical recuperation. How he performs once the season begins will determine whether the Islanders — and Duclair himself — can leave the episode behind and focus on on-ice results.