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.