"If Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat are the engines of the New York Islanders' offense, Emil Heineman might be the spark that keeps them running at full throttle. Since joining their line, the 22-year-old Swedish winger has added exactly what head coach Patrick Roy felt the duo needed: speed, grit, and an instinct for doing the dirty work that lets Barzal and Horvat shine."
""I like his speed. I like his physicality," Roy said after practice. "He brings that element that the line needs. When he goes to the net, it opens up the game for Barzy and for Bo. And he's a good scorer." It's no secret that Barzal and Horvat have chemistry - their two-on-one goal against Boston was proof enough - but what Heineman does is give that chemistry purpose."
""We've been working really hard, it's not like we're accidentally finding each other... we have been having a lot of chances, and could have scored a lot more, too," said Heineman. "He [Barzal] can find the passes, and create a lot on his own too ... he's bringing a lot, obviously." "He's been playing really well," Roy added. "When he goes to the net, it opens up everything for the other two.""
Emil Heineman, a 22-year-old Swedish winger, brings speed, physicality, relentless forechecking, and net-front instinct to Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat's top line. His direct routes and timing create space by drawing defenders and clearing the middle of the ice, enabling Barzal's playmaking and Horvat's finishing. Heineman's limited puck time but high-impact presence produces scoring chances and complements east-west puck movement. The combination enhances line structure and effort while supplying gritty, dirty work in tight areas. The arrival adds a timely element that could transform the top line into a more consistent, high-performing unit.
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