Emil Heineman has been a nice piece for the Montreal Canadiens this season, especially with Jesse Ylonen falling out of favour and Rafael Harvey Pinard injured.
Heineman made the Habs roster out of camp and his heavy game has been the perfect complement for the third line. But I think that he has the potential, should he continue developing like he has to be a second-line talent. With Patrik Laine out with injury and Joshua Roy down in Laval, Heineman getting hot could be a good thing for Montreal.
With the second line configured with Kirby Dach, Alex Newhook and Joel Armia, there is room for a guy like Heineman. I think Armia is more suited to play a bottom-six role, and Heineman's offensive game could be a nice fit with No. 77 and 15. Heineman has the big shot and he uses his body to disrupt the opposition on the forecheck.
What a ripper from Emil Heineman
— Scott Matla (@scottmatla) October 15, 2024
3-2 Habs pic.twitter.com/Mfabv9GR7p
Heineman has played quite well, and he benefitted with his second goal of the season, as a result of being in the right spot. in a two-on-one situation, he opted to shoot and it was the right decision. Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry didn't see the puck, that's how fast it came off his stick.
Even if he goes back down to the third line, when Laine returns and if Roy gets recalled, his experience on the second line would only help him grow. The increase in minutes and competition should only help him improve his awareness and challenge him to make quicker decisions. Heineman has the skating, vision and skills to be a top-nine talent for a long time, and if he can shape a strong offensive game, he could become an important player for the Habs.
Heineman uses physicality in a smart manner
The Leksand, Sweden native doesn't run around looking to staple guys to the boards, instead, he throws timely hits to slow the opposition. If he can use his body to slow down his opponent's that is usually his weapon of choice. While he doesn't appear to be a big body, he is stout and plays a heavy game.
Because he doesn't run around throwing hits, when he decides to throw a body check, it is generally unexpected. He catches opponents off guard. But the way he rushes the puck, putting the opposition between himself and the puck, is a big part of why he succeeds.
His shot comes off his stick quick and it has some whip to it, which truly exhibits his physical strength.