– I play hard, but never deliberately dirty, Rantanen said.
Mikko Rantanen is the number one star of the Dallas Stars. PDO
Mikko Rantanen found himself in the middle of a commotion after tackling the New York Islanders Alexander Romanov from back to side.
Rantanen commented on the situation for the first time after Stars’ practice on Wednesday.
– Of course I didn’t mean it, and I have never acted that way in my career, he said in a video published by Stars.
– I play hard, but never deliberately dirty.
Romanov was injured in the situation. Rantanen was given a foul and sent off, but not suspended.
– I remember falling forward a little, putting my hand on his back and maybe pushing the little one. It probably shouldn’t have been done.
Rantanen said that he had sent Romanov a text message.
– I wished him all the best for his recovery. I hope it wasn’t too bad for him.
Islanders coach, Hall of Fame guard Patrick Roy got hot after the situation and shouted furiously after Rantanen, who had left the booth.
– I didn’t hear that [Royn huutelua]Rantanen said.
– I don’t read much news, so I’m not sure what he said.