The NY Islanders' towering prospects are turning some heads at Development Camp

The NY Islanders held their prospect scrimmage last night in front of a packed house at Northwell Health Ice Center. The fans in attendance were treated to a high-scoring affair, with nine goals scored in total through two periods of 4-on-4 play.

With the organization replenishing its prospect pool on all fronts, Mathieu Darche, as well as Lou Lamoriello, has added a substantial amount of size and grit through the draft and collegiate free agency, with those players on display last night.

Size is playing a factor at Islanders Development Camp

Gleb Veremyev, one of the top NCAA free agents during the 2024-25 season, had two goals last night, in addition to the clinching goal in the shootout.

Veremyev, a 6’5” center from New Jersey, was signed by Lamoriello following his Junior season at Colorado College. He made a name for himself during the preseason last year, including a two-goal night against the NY Rangers. He struggled with consistency throughout the regular season, bouncing between the Bridgeport Islanders and the Worcester Raiders of the ECHL, preparing for a bounce-back season in 2026-27.

“I had something to prove a little bit going into this weekend,” Veremyev said after last night's scrimmage. “After the year I had, I kind of had a little extra chip on my shoulder, so I kind of gave it all I had, and it felt good.”

Daniil Prokhorov, selected in the second round in 2025, has displayed his infectious personality along with his size and skill. A 6’6” Russian winger, Prokhorov had one of the goals of the night, using his size and speed to fend off a defender, taking the puck across the face of the goal to beat the netminder. After bouncing around the KHL, VHL, and MHL, he’ll begin his first season in North America, likely with the Hamilton Hammers in their inaugural season.

Malte Gustafsson, this year's first-round pick, may not flash his skill, but last night showed his poise and defensive abilities. His effortless skating for a player nearly 6’5” and just 18 years old reflects what all teams are looking for when selecting a defenseman at the top of the draft.

All three prospects won’t start the season in the NHL, but are on the path towards making their way up to the big club.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow