Maple Leafs Miss Out on Top Free Agent Who Joins Eastern Conference Rival

Recently linked to names such as Luke Haymes, and signing John Prokop, the Maple Leafs have been busy when it comes to looking at potential college standouts who could be the next Matthew Knies (at least in terms of star power).

One interesting name is Gleb Veremyev, a forward out of Colorado who would no doubt add some size and offensive potential to the club.

However, it looks like the team will need to focus on another college player, as the 21-year old decided to sign a contract with the New York Islanders on Friday.

He was one of the biggest free agents to come out of the NCAA this season, and the ability to be a big part of the Islanders offense for years to come has to excite not only the young forward, but the team.

He's a beast at 6'4, and while only 200 pounds, has a lot of time to bulk up and gain some size to provide an even bigger presence on the ice.

This season, Veremyev has posted 17 points in 37 games, which is a drop-off from his 28 point campaign last year, but was still expected to sign in the NHL once his school season was finished.

New York picks him up and adds him to a team that already has some youth on the squad with Simon Holmstrom and Maxim Tsyplakov while also having names like Cole Eiserman, William Dufour, and Calle Odelius in their system who could be teammates with Veremyev shortly.

While Toronto does miss out on the young forward, they still have a chance at acquiring Haymes, as well as Karsten Dowart; arguably the NCAA's top free agent available.

But for now, the towering center will get a chance to ply his trade in Long Island. While he may not be ready just yet, he could be a huge factor for the team for years to come; especially if they pull off something big come free agency.