After avoiding suspension, Mikko Rantanen responds to controversy with goal of the year candidate

No supplemental discipline was handed to Mikko Rantanen following his dangerous hit on New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov, an incident that had Patrick Roy absolutely livid. According to the league, Romanov’s defensive partner, Scott Mayfield, made contact with Rantanen just before the collision, a factor that influenced the decision not to issue a suspension.

Still, the hit remains one of the most talked-about moments of the early season. Roy didn’t hold back not even close. On the bench, he was incandescent, screaming at Rantanen as he headed down the tunnel after Romanov was helped off the ice.

“You’re not gonna f*ing finish this game!” he yelled, a rare flash of completely unfiltered fury from the Hall of Fame coach.

Postgame, Roy doubled down, emphasizing respect and safety:

“When you see the number, you have to lay off. Everybody knows that,” he said, calling Rantanen’s hit “disrespectful.”

All of this set the stage for Rantanen’s response in the very next game.

And respond he did.

The Dallas Stars forward made his presence felt immediately, scoring an absolutely gorgeous goal in a 4–2 win over the Vancouver Canucks. A true highlight-reel finish, the kind that shifts momentum and reminds everyone exactly how dangerous Rantanen can be when he’s dialed in.

It’s already being floated as an early contender for goal of the Year in the NHL.

From sparking a coaching meltdown to delivering a jaw-dropping play less than 48 hours later, Rantanen has managed to dominate the conversation on both ends of the spectrum. And whether you’re dissecting the hit or replaying the goal, one thing is certain: he’s not done making noise this season.