New Jersey kid Gleb Veremyev has a night to remember at MSG for the NY Islanders

It was a night to remember for 22-year-old forward Gleb Veremyev, who grew up in Middlesex County, NJ, just across the river from Madison Square Garden. In front of friends and family, Veremyev notched two goals in the Islanders’ thrilling 5-4 preseason win over the Rangers on Thursday night, making the most of a stage he once dreamed of playing on.

Veremyev, who signed a two-year deal with the Islanders this summer, is fresh out of Colorado College, where he played three seasons of NCAA hockey before joining Bridgeport late last year. He skated in 10 AHL games to close out the 2023-24 campaign, showing flashes of his blend of size, energy, and scoring touch.

On Thursday, it all came together. “A big part of my game is getting in on the forecheck, getting to the net, being kind of a pest to play against,” he said. That was on display as his line drove play by keeping their feet moving and creating chances in the offensive zone.

But the setting itself made the night memorable. Growing up a Rangers fan and attending games at the Garden, he soaked in every detail. “It’s probably one of the cooler moments I’ve definitely experienced,” he said. “Coming to the rink today, wanted to look at the rink, the city, the atmosphere. It felt special for sure.”

Patrick Roy has spoken often about giving young players opportunities in camp, and Veremyev is making the most of his minutes. The local kid from Jersey will be a name to watch in Bridgeport this season. “It's eye-opening and shocking, but it lets me know that I can kind of play at this level and keep up with these guys,” Veremyev said. “It's a big step, but there's a lot more to grow on and develop in my game. So just a step in the right direction for now.”