Anthony Duclair, a player for the Islanders, is taking a break to consider recent events with the team.
According to reports, Islanders head coach Patrick Roy mentioned to journalists that Duclair, age 29, requested time for reflection during a conversation on Thursday morning and will be given `all the time he needs`.
The duration of Duclair`s absence is not yet known, and it`s uncertain if he will be back before the regular season concludes.
Roy described his latest discussion with Duclair, who was absent from Thursday`s Islanders practice, as `positive`.
This leave comes shortly after Roy publicly criticized the winger after a 4-1 defeat against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
`He was terrible. Absolutely terrible. He had a very poor game,` Roy stated. `That`s why his playing time was limited. He`s fortunate to even be playing. I apologize for my strong words, but that`s my honest opinion.`
Roy further explained that he felt Duclair`s effort was lacking and questioned his level of competitiveness.
`He isn`t skating effectively, not competing hard enough, and not moving his feet. His performance isn`t meeting our expectations.`
Duclair only played for four shifts in the third period of Tuesday`s game that they lost.
He is currently in his first year of a four-year contract worth $14 million, which includes a full no-trade clause until 2026. So far, he has scored seven goals and provided four assists in 44 games.
