The NY Islanders are closing in on a deal with one of the top NCAA free agents in Gleb Veremyev

As the NCAA hockey season winds down, with most teams eliminated from postseason play, NCAA free agents are eligible to sign with NHL teams. It appears the NY Islanders will land one of the most coveted of them all, Gleb Veremyev of Colorado College.

According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, Veremyev, who grew up in New Jersey, is ranked one of the NCAA’s top free agents, as the 6’4”, 215 lbs center has a legitimate chance to play in the NHL.

It’s rare that any collegiate free agents make much of an impact at the NHL level, but Veremyev has the potential to put together a solid career as a hard-to-play-against fourth liner.

Gleb Veremyev to sign with the NY Islanders

“I think I’m a true power forward,” Veremyev said according to Rinkside Rhode Island this summer. “I can be on a top line, opening up space for my teammates, putting the puck in the net. I love to get in on the forecheck. I’ve really been working on my defensive game a lot this past year and I think it’s improved a lot. I’m working on my first three strides. My game overall, I’d say I’m really hard to play against, I’ve got good hands and a good shot. I’m not afraid to play against anyone and prove myself against anyone on the ice.”

Though he earned time on the top line at Colorado College, it’s not likely he’ll see time in that position at the next level, but even the way Veremyev describes his own game sounds ideal for a checking line role.

In 37 games this season, Veremyev scored nine goals and added eight assists. His numbers took a significant dip from his 15 goals and 13 assists the year before, but his game going forward won't be measured on his point production.

“He certainly has the skill set that you project to be playing a future NHL role,” says Colorado College coach Kris Mayotte. “He has the size, he has the skill, he has the competitiveness and the willingness. It really is just continuing to finetune the details. He’s a physical presence. He doesn’t back down from anything. He’s going to get to the net. He’s going to finish all his hits. But it’s learning and continuing to embrace and execute the smaller details.”

Veremyev joined the Boston Bruins at rookie development camp over the summer, earning some valuable experience playing alongside other prospects under the instruction of NHL and AHL coaches. It’s believed the Bruins were interested in signing Veremyev, but it appears he has opted for a future with the Islanders.