CALGARY, Alberta — Mike Reilly is set to undergo a procedure on Tuesday related to a heart issue that emerged during his recovery from a concussion, according to Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello. Reilly, who suffered a knockout from a hit by Jordan Greenway in Buffalo on November 1, is currently sidelined indefinitely, although the situation is not deemed career-ending.
The 31-year-old defenseman has since recovered from the concussion, which initially raised concerns regarding long-term effects. Lamoriello remarked that the heart issue has existed for several years and requires attention, although he withheld specific details. He did describe the discovery as potentially advantageous, indicating that the issue, which might have been congenital, was previously unknown to Reilly. Lamoriello assured that Reilly's quality of life would not be impacted by the procedure, labeling it as minor, though he acknowledged that it would take a considerable amount of time for Reilly to return to the ice.
In the context of the Islanders roster, this development may lead to an extended opportunity for Isaiah George, who has received positive feedback since his call-up from AHL Bridgeport earlier this month. During practice on Monday, George partnered with Ryan Pulock, while Alexander Romanov, recovering from an upper-body injury, was reinstated to his usual pairing with Noah Dobson, suggesting he may be available for Tuesday's game against the Flames. Romanov, cleared by team doctors, expressed optimism about his potential return, stating, 'I feel great.' Meanwhile, Lamoriello offered no updates regarding Anthony Duclair (suspected groin), Mat Barzal (upper body), or Adam Pelech (jaw), whose timetables were initially set at 4-6 weeks. Lamoriello also refrained from commenting on any communication with the NHL regarding Patrick Roy's controversial challenge for goalie interference during the Islanders' recent 3-2 loss to Seattle, stating, 'It’s all in the past.'
