Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
Islanders’ Adam Pelech Addresses Paul Cotter Hit, Considers Matter Resolved
New York Islanders defenseman Adam Pelech, in a more composed demeanor than displayed on Sunday, stated Tuesday morning that he considers the issue regarding Paul Cotter’s illegal check to his head to be concluded.
Pelech Cleared to Play After Cotter Incident
Pelech, who exited Sunday’s 1-0 victory against the New Jersey Devils with a bloodied face after the illegal hit, and reacted strongly to Cotter’s actions, was medically cleared to participate in the Islanders’ home season finale Tuesday versus the Washington Capitals.
“I was not cleared to return to [Sunday’s] game, obviously,” Pelech explained prior to the 3-1 defeat against the Capitals. “However, I underwent the complete concussion protocols again yesterday, and I am feeling well. Consequently, I am ready to play.”
Cotter Suspended; Pelech Receives Apology
Cotter received a suspension for the Devils’ final two regular-season contests due to the head check. These games are inconsequential as New Jersey is already locked into a first-round playoff matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. Pelech mentioned that Cotter contacted him following the game to apologize and smooth things over.

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The Islanders defenseman has a history of concussions, which significantly contributed to his heightened emotional response during the incident. Pelech also experienced a considerable absence this season due to a fractured jaw. Cotter incurred a 5-minute major penalty and a match penalty for the hit, and Islanders coach Patrick Roy continued to voice his disapproval of the play on Tuesday.
Coach Roy’s Displeasure with the Hit
“We are not pleased with that. Nobody was happy about what transpired,” Roy stated. “The positive aspect is that [Pelech] was on the ice today, and he is prepared to compete. The league addressed the situation. Nevertheless, we do not condone what happened, without question.”
Romanov Out with Illness, Perunovich Returns
Alexander Romanov was unexpectedly scratched from the lineup due to illness. Scott Perunovich took his place, participating in a game for the first time since February 25, and accumulated 18 minutes and 25 seconds of ice time.
Lennox Practices with Islanders
Tristan Lennox, who was assigned to AHL Bridgeport through a paper transaction on Sunday, was present on the ice with the Islanders during Tuesday morning’s practice, despite not officially being on the active roster.
Broadcast Details for Islanders Game
Following ESPN’s decision to drop Tuesday’s game coverage, local viewers could only access the broadcast via the Islanders’ official website and app, which streamed the game featuring commentators Brendan Burke and Butch Goring, or through radio broadcasts.
The game remained accessible to viewers outside the local market on ESPN+.