Emil Heineman embraces new adventure and opportunity with NY Islanders

Mathieu Darche made no secret about how badly he wanted Emil Heineman included in the deal that sent Noah Dobson to Montreal this summer. For the New York Islanders’ new general manager, the 23-year-old Swede wasn’t just a throw-in — he was a priority.

Heineman sounded equally energized about joining the Islanders when he spoke with reporters on Saturday for the first time since the trade was finalized in late June.

“When they called, I was like, ‘All right, here we go,’” Heineman said via the New York Post. “I saw it on Twitter, too, so I knew it was coming. When it happened, I was like, yeah, really excited. New adventure for me and my girlfriend, too. We’re looking forward to it. ”The winger, who posted 10 goals and eight assists in 62 games with the Canadiens last season, admitted he had to calm himself down after first hearing his name in trade rumors. But unlike his battle to earn a roster spot in Montreal last year, there’s a belief he’s firmly in the Islanders’ plans heading into camp.

Darche lauded Heineman’s competitiveness and physicality, traits that align with the Islanders’ hard-nosed style. “We see potential,” Darche said on draft night. “He’s a strong kid that skates great, he’s got a rocket of a shot. If you look at his goals, it’s a high-velocity shot that can score. We see a lot of potential in this player.”

While the two first-round picks acquired in the deal turned into prospects Kashawn Aitcheson and Victor Eklund - both seen as future NHLers - Heineman is expected to provide immediate impact. His fit could come on the Islanders’ fourth line, where his work ethic and shot could thrive. “For this year, I’m really excited to take the next step,” Heineman said. “Overall, I’m proud of what I brought last year, and I learned how to play in the NHL. Now, I just want to keep building and stay in the league.”