Ex-RoadRunner debuts with Islanders

Former RoadRunners forward Joel Rechlicz made his NHL debut on March 5 for the New York Islanders, recording an assist in a 4-2 loss to the New York Rangers.

Rechlicz, a 21-year-old from Brookfield, Wis., played for the RoadRunners during the 2004-05 season when the organization was located in Santa Fe, N.M.

The 6-foot-4, 220-pounder was signed as a free agent by the Islanders in 2006 and played professionally in the AHL, ECHL, IHL and UHL before skating in his first NHL game.

“He was a monster-sized kid who had an unheard of energy level,” RoadRunners head coach Scott Langer remembered.  “With his enthusiasm to make it in the game, it doesn't surprise me he made it to The Show.”