Greg Van Roten: Jets should follow Islanders’ model

Greg Van Roten: Jets should follow Islanders’ model

The Jets are taking notes on how to build a contender, and they’re getting these tips from unusual teachers — their hockey counterparts, the Islanders.

Offensive lineman Greg Van Roten — who was born in Rockville Centre and has been an Islanders fan since he was a kid— thinks the Jets can replicate the Islanders’ success by following the same team philosophy.

“One of my favorite things about the Islanders is they play within the system,” Van Roten said. “If you are not from this market, very few people know a lot of the names on the team. I think it just shows if you have a really good coach, a really good system, and guys that work hard, then you can go far.”

The past two seasons the Islanders have been knocking on the door of a championship. Both seasons they fell one series short of the Stanley Cup final — losing both times to the Lightning. Nevertheless, their deep journey through the playoffs was an entertaining one for the city, but especially Van Roten.

Greg Van Roten and Lou LamorielloGreg Van Roten and Lou LamorielloN.Y. Post: Charles Wenzelberg; Getty Imagesberg;

The 30-year-old spent much of last season unable to bond with his teammates due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This offseason he found new ways to bond with his teammates, including taking them to cheer on his beloved Islanders in the playoffs and chugging beer — an experience he thinks will help the team moving forward.

“It’s one of those intangible things, it’s not really measurable,” Van Roten said. “Something we didn’t have the opportunity to do last year was to build comradery and spend time off the field together.

“So, it was nice for two reasons. One, it just felt more normal like what it is supposed to feel like during OTAs. Two, it is a great way to get to know someone and introduce them to New York traffic. … It’s always fun to get to know your teammates and build friendships.”

As for the Jets, they have a bunch of new faces who may not be well-known around the league. They also have a new system set in place for first-year head coach Robert Saleh, one that many of the players are rallying around.

“You hear it all the time: ‘All gas, no brake. Cut it loose, play fast, have fun.’ He really kind of simplifies what he’s asking of you,” Van Roten said. “That makes it easier as a player. He’s been a joy to be around these first few months. I’m excited for training camp. I’m really excited about the trajectory of the team going forward.”

As for the Islanders, they enter a busy offseason. General manager Lou Lamoriello will have his hands full trying to revamp the roster to get over the Stanley Cup semifinals hump. However, he should not expect any advice from Van Roten on how to improve the team.

“I have not called him. I’m going to let him do his thing,” Van Roten said, “and I’m going to stay in my lane when it comes to our different expertise.”