Team Sweden could regret passing on Islanders forward

"Heineman has had one heck of a season for the Isles this year. He's found a home in Long Island after coming over from the Montreal Canadiens in the Noah Dobson trade. Entering Saturday night's action, Heineman had 12 goals in 41 games. He's already blown past his career-high in goals and matched his highest point total. Apparently, that doesn't seem noteworthy enough for Team Sweden. Fair enough. Perhaps the Swedish side is looking for players with other qualities that Heineman may not possess."

"Holmberg has six goals in 34 games this season, while pretty much playing a bottom-six role for the Lightning. Sure, the Lightning are a deep team, but what does Holmberg have over Heineman? Holmberg has never been more than a depth player. Even when the Toronto Maple Leafs attempted to give him a greater role, he could not quite step up. Since moving to Tampa Bay, Holmberg continues to play the role of grinder."

Team Sweden submitted its Olympic roster that excludes New York Islanders forward Emil Heineman despite his breakout season. Heineman has 12 goals in 41 games after joining the Isles in the Noah Dobson trade and has already surpassed his previous career highs. Sweden selected Pontus Holmberg instead, a bottom-six Tampa Bay Lightning forward with six goals in 34 games and a reputation as a depth grinder. Critics note Holmberg offers safe, unspectacular experience while players like Heineman and Simon Holmstrom have shown scoring and gritty play. Heineman's chemistry with Bo Horvat and ability to win puck battles evidences NHL readiness.

Read at Eyes On Isles