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. His direct, forechecking style draws defenders in and clears the middle of the ice for his linemates’ creativity. Heineman doesn’t need the puck on his stick long to make an impact; his routes and timing do the heavy lifting.
“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.” That willingness to crash the crease complements Barzal’s east-west puck movement and Horvat’s finishing touch. For a team that’s often looked for someone to help unlock its top line’s full potential, Heineman’s arrival feels timely.
Roy, who values structure and effort as much as flair, seems to recognize it too. “He’s a great fit,” he said. “He brings that element we need.” If the early returns are any indication, Heineman could be more than just a complementary winger – he could be the missing piece that finally turns Barzal and Horvat into one of the league’s most dangerous duos.
