Islanders’ In-Game Line Changes On Opening Night Show Pete DeBoer Won’t Wait To Make Adjustments

New York Islanders head coach Pete DeBoer made swift in-game line adjustments during an opening night loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Trailing 2-0 midway through the second period, DeBoer shifted several forwards to reward energetic skaters and spark the offense.

Anthony Duclair and Matias Maccelli earned increased ice time alongside Cal Ritchie, while Brayden Schenn was demoted to the fourth line. Emil Heineman moved onto a line with Bo Horvat and Kyle Palmieri, eventually scoring off a rush from Horvat.