Islanders’ Kyle MacLean draws praise for ‘physicality’ after hit ignites firestorm

Kyle MacLean’s hard but legal hit on Ivar Stenberg sparked a heated response during the Islanders’ 3-2 loss to San Jose, followed by fights involving MacLean and another Islanders player. Coach Pete DeBoer praised MacLean and Mitchell Chaffee for bringing physical energy, highlighting a role they may need as the team manages its returning forwards.

MacLean had a blackened eye and stitches after his fight with Ty Dellandrea. Mathew Barzal, Ryan Pulock and Matias Maccelli all took part in full-contact practice, though DeBoer said the Islanders would assess them before deciding whether they are ready to return. Sharks winger Mason Marchment was fined $5,000 for roughing Victor Eklund.