Islanders’ Mike Reilly undergoing heart procedure after condition detected during concussion recovery

CALGARY, Alberta — Mike Reilly will undergo a procedure on Tuesday having to do with a heart issue that was uncovered during his recovery from a concussion, Isles general manager Lou Lamoriello said after the team practiced on Monday.

Reilly, who was knocked out cold by Jordan Greenway’s hit in Buffalo on Nov. 1, is out indefinitely but this is not considered to be a career-ending situation.

The 31-year-old has also recovered from the concussion that, in the moment, looked to be a potentially long-term issue.

Islanders defenseman Mike Reilly during a game against the Ducks on Oct. 29, 2024. AP

“It’s something he’s had for a number of years that needs attention and he’ll be out indefinitely with it,” Lamoriello said of the heart issue, the specifics of which he declined to reveal. “… And it’s probably a blessing in disguise with what transpired that they detected this. Something that you’re sometimes born with but [he] never knew.”

Lamoriello said Reilly’s quality of life won’t be affected and the procedure is “in and out,” though it will take him “quite a bit of time” to return to play.

For the Islanders, that means Isaiah George’s stint with the team could be extended over the long term.

George, who has drawn rave reviews since being called up from AHL Bridgeport earlier this month, skated Monday on a pair with Ryan Pulock as Alexander Romanov (upper body) drew back into the fold and was on his usual pair with Noah Dobson — a good sign for his availability in Tuesday’s match against the Flames.

Islanders defenseman Mike Reilly is examined by a trainer after suffering a concussion against the Sabres on Nov. 1, 2024. AP

Romanov has been cleared by team doctors to return, per Lamoriello. The 24-year-old said a final decision to play will come Tuesday, but he sounded optimistic.

“I feel great,” Romanov said. “Feels like I’m gonna be ready tomorrow. I will be 100 percent sure tomorrow, [but] I’m just preparing myself for the game tomorrow.”

Romanov has been with the Islanders throughout this road trip, which began over a week ago, but only shed a non-contact jersey recently.

“It’s awesome to be part of the team again,” he said. “Not watching the game on the TV or in the stands. Just be with the team. That’s great. Great feelings.”

Lamoriello said the hope is for Anthony Duclair (suspected groin) to begin skating at the end of this week. As for Mat Barzal (upper body) and Adam Pelech (jaw), there were no updates to the timetable for either, which was originally given as 4-6 weeks.

Lamoriello declined to answer whether the Islanders had communicated with the NHL over Patrick Roy’s failed challenge for goalie interference on Saturday, which led to Roy saying the team had gotten “robbed” after the 3-2 loss to Seattle.

“It’s all in the past,” Lamoriello said. “We get ready to play tomorrow night. It’s over.”