Jakub Malek – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW JERSEY DEVILS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #22

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 15:45:15 +0000

NEWARK, NJ - JULY 14: New Jersey Devils defenseman Seamus Casey (72) skates during New Jersey Devils Development Camp on July 14, 2023, at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 22nd (May 2025 - 15th)
GM: Tom Fitzgerald Hired: July 2020
COACH: Sheldon Keefe Hired: May 2024

After years of turbulence, the New Jersey Devils returned to the playoffs in 2024-25 for just the fourth time in 15 years. A clear sign the rebuild is firmly on track. Jack Hughes has blossomed into a bona fide star, supported by Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Timo Meier. On the back end, Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec have secured full-time roles, giving the Devils one of the league’s most promising young defensive tandems.

More help is already knocking at the door. Seamus Casey split time between the NHL and AHL last season, showcasing the puck-moving flair and offensive instincts that make him one of the most exciting defense prospects in the league. The question is whether there will be enough room for both Casey and Nemec to thrive in similar roles. A bit further out, 2024 10th overall pick Anton Silayev continues his development in the KHL, honing his shutdown game while offering significant long-term upside.

Goaltender Mikhail Yegorov, a 2024 second rounder, turned heads after joining Boston University midseason from the USHL. In just a few weeks, he became the backbone of the Terriers, posting an 11-6-1 record with a .927 save percentage and helping lead them to the NCAA Championship game.

The Devils didn’t have a first-round pick in 2025 but still added two notable prospects in Conrad Fondrk and Ben Kevan, both of whom immediately slot into the organization’s top 10.

With a young NHL core already producing and another wave of promising players on the way, New Jersey appears to be transitioning from a team hoping to make the playoffs to one capable of sustained postseason success. If their prospect development continues to align with the growth of their established stars, the Devils could become one of the league’s most consistent threats over the next decade.

New Jersey Devils Top-15 Prospects

1 - Anton Silayev

6-foot-7 giant Anton Silayev continued to make steady progress this season. Given an increased role on a weaker Torpedo roster, he stepped up and made an impact on a nightly basis. Defensively, he looked much more composed than the year prior, using his size better to angle off opponents and disrupt plays with his long reach. Offensively, he made slight improvements to his play, but I would lower expectations for him to be a point producer in the NHL. He scored a few nice goals by joining the rush at the right moments, but many of his points came from secondary passes and deflections off point shots. While his game still needs polish, Silayev projects as a future shutdown defenceman for the Devils. He’ll need more time to round out his weaker areas, but with another year left on his KHL contract, he has the runway to continue growing before making the jump to North America.

2 - Mikhail Yegorov

Mikhail Yegorov is a massive 6-foot-5 goalie that plays a simple, technical game. He prefers to move as little as possible, and he accomplishes this by having a wide stance and using his long legs to grab ice in short movements, moving smartly through the crease with good routes. He’s a no-nonsense goalie and is in full control, rarely scrambling. His best attribute is his tracking. He quickly follows any passes, anticipates play, and reads releases very well, tracking the puck all the way into his quick hands. He does a lot well and already has a polished game for a guy who only made the jump to the NCAA midseason as an 18-year-old proving to be elite already. His biggest concern is his rebound control. He tends to let the puck bounce off his chest a lot, and doesn’t control his stick much, giving up bad rebounds in tight that end in goals. Yegorov projects well to the NHL and has separating talents, making him a strong candidate to be a quality starting goaltender.

3 - Seamus Casey

Seamus Casey had an interesting first professional season: he started the season with the New Jersey Devils and played well, then he went down to AHL Utica and was on fire offensively to start the year, and then he battled through injuries and spent time at both the NHL and AHL levels, and even got a glimpse of action in an NHL playoff game. The hallmark of Casey’s game is his offensive ability; he’s a creative defenceman that excels at distributing the puck and making plays. He’s also a very capable skater, which complements his offensive ability and adds deception that he can use to manipulate opposing players. Casey has even worked quite hard on his own game away from the puck and does a good job engaging opposing forwards in his own zone. Casey won’t ever become the world’s best shutdown player, but he can play effectively in the defensive zone, and it won’t limit his NHL deployment. Casey should feature well this year as a full-time defenceman for the Devils.

4 - Arseni Gritsyuk

Devils fifth-round pick from 2019, Arseni Gritsyuk set career highs in assists and points this season with SKA St. Petersburg. He brings many tools to the table which make him a very dangerous threat when play is in the offensive zone. His IQ and playmaking have come a long way since his draft year, allowing him to consistently make the right reads and generate scoring chances. While his defensive game still needs work, he’s improved his physicality and compete level, addressing many of the concerns that scouts shared during his draft year. Rumors suggest Gritsyuk could be headed to North America after this season, where he may challenge for a roster spot in New Jersey. If he makes the jump, he projects as a middle six winger and a strong one-time threat on the second power-play unit.

5 - Lenni Hameenaho

Hämeenaho has shown consistent production in Finland’s Liiga since being drafted 5eighth overall by New Jersey in 2023. In 202023-24, he posted 31 points in 46 games for Ässät and added six points at the World Juniors. He elevated his game in 2024-25, notching 51 points (20 goals, 31 assists) in 58 games, while also earning a spot on Finland’s men’s national team for the World Championship, where he contributed four points in eight games. Hämeenaho’s strengths lie in his hockey sense. His off puck reads, timing into soft areas, and ability to vary pace make him a constant scoring threat. His playmaking has improved, and he’s shown more commitment defensively. However, skating remains his biggest obstacle; mechanical inefficiencies limit his mobility, puck control in motion, and ability to handle physical pressure. Without improvement in this area, his NHL projection leans toward a depth or AHL role, but with strides in mobility, he could grow into a bottom six checking winger.

6 - Conrad Fondrk

Fondrk was the third USNTDP forward taken off the board in the 2025 draft, and New Jersey believes there is a lot to love in the St. Paul native. Fondrk passes the eye-test in every sense of the word. He is an above-average skater, a creative stick handler, and a solid distributor, especially in the offensive zone. In addition to his prowess in the face-off circle and consistent backchecking, Fondrk is a valuable two-way center in the Devils’ future. This past season for the NTDP, Fondrk was a solid center who was seeing a surge in points right before he got injured for the rest of the year in late February. If healthy, he would probably have had a similar jump in points to his teammate Cole McKinney had. Fondrk will now enter a loaded Boston University lineup next season, and, on the surface, will have limited opportunity to make a large mark for the Terriers. Don’t be surprised if Fondrk defies expectations and shows up in moments for BU.

7 - Ben Kevan

After exploding for 57 points as a 16-year-old, Ben Kevan saw a significant drop in points for a Des Moines team that did not perform great this past season. Kevan is now heading to sunny Tempe, Arizona to play with the Sun Devils, so the question becomes; What is ASU, and also New Jersey, getting in a player like Kevan? He is a speedy north-south skater and has the ability to create space for himself and his teammates. Kevan creates offence with those aspects, along with his hard shot, though he could do with a more mature shot selection. He has his moments defensively, tilting the ice in his favor, but overall, his compete is average. Kevan should find every opportunity to succeed at Arizona State and find the scoring form that he had just two years ago.

8 - Jakub Malek

For a 6-foot-4 goaltender, Jakub Malek has exceptional control over his body and significant explosiveness. Sometimes, he can make a poor read and either be in a bad position or behind the play, but with a single big push, he can get right back to where he needs to be. He does so with precision as well, not throwing his limbs around. Outside of these physical attributes, he possesses good positioning, deepening when necessary, and has a very good stance, looking like an imposing figure taking up a lot of net. Alongside poor reads though, he can struggle tracking the puck but not majorly. There has been a noticeable weakness with his glove side, where he often will get beat without having it moved, something that could be exploited in higher levels. Malek has a solid outlook to the NHL, potentially as a good backup, after three very respectable seasons in the Liiga, which he should be able to translate to the AHL seamlessly.

9 - Thomas Bordeleau

Thomas Bordeleau was a highly rated prospect just a couple of seasons ago, but he has been unable to carve out a full-time role for himself at the NHL level. Bordeleau’s speed and offensive creativity are undeniable; he’s a great playmaker, can beat opposing defenders one-on-one with his speed, and can utilize an underrated shot to beat goalies clean in-tight. It has been surprising that Bordeleau was unable to find a consistent role with San Jose given his skill, but there are also holes in his game that make his NHL deployment quite limited. Bordeleau’s not the biggest player in the world, and while he competes, there are times when he’s too easy to knock off the puck. This makes it quite difficult for a coach to trust Bordeleau with bottom six minutes at the NHL level. Bordeleau is getting a fresh start with the New Jersey Devils’ organization, but his time as a prospect is coming to an end; it appears to be now or never for the former University of Michigan standout.

10 - Cam Squires

Cam Squires was drafted 122nd overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2023 after producing near a point-per-game pace with Cape Breton. While he showed no glaring weaknesses aside from explosiveness, his game also lacked standout qualities, which limited his draft stock. The next season, he maintained a similar pace in the regular season but broke out in the playoffs with 20 points in 14 games, ranking sixth in overall scoring and fifth in points per game. Following this impressive run, Squires signed his entry-level contract in July with the Devils. Squires carried that momentum into the following season, leading Cape Breton with 75 points in 58 games. After another early playoff exit, he joined the AHL and impressed with four points in three games while logging north of 13 minutes every night. His style hasn’t changed much since his draft year: he finds success by playing simple, smart hockey. Squires paces around the ice, finds openings for a passing option, and with the puck, never overcomplicates the play. Though he lacks high-end creativity or skill to raise his ceiling, his intelligence and consistency give him a real chance to carve out a bottom six role with the Devils.

11 - Topias Vilen

Vilen’s value comes from being a defenceman you can plug-and-play in any role and not have to worry. He’s defensively reliable and yet is averaging almost 0.50 point-per-game in the AHL. At this point, Vilen is not going to be much more than a third-pairing guy or that seventh defenceman. If Vilen can develop into more of a shooting threat, his offence will open up and give him greater opportunities of being in the top six.

12 - Ethan Edwards

What’s a New Jersey Devils prospect pool without another offensive defenceman out of Michigan? Edwards was the Wolverines' go-to guy last season, playing over 24 minutes a night, earning 21 points in 36 games. Edwards' defence is not ready for the NHL yet because he isn’t physical enough. In Utica, he’ll need to work heavily on this area if he wants to be a regular at the pro level, let alone the NHL.

13 - Shane Lachance

Lachance is a behemoth at 6-foot-5 and is willing to plant himself in front of the net to get deflections or use his long stick to clean up rebounds. At the NCAA level with BU, he’s shown he can complement skilled guys, and there’s more to his game than just his size. He’ll be in Utica next season, where his versatility will get him used up and down the lineup and probably on the power play.

14 - Samu Salminen

Salminen has always had the smarts, but his stick skills didn’t quite match. He is a threat on the ice because he reads the game quickly and beats defenders to the most dangerous spots on the ice. Transferring from UConn to Denver last season, Salminen’s stickhandling improved and he jumped from 17 to 28 points, albeit in nine more games. If he continues to improve on the puck, he should have another good year as a middle six center.

15 - Gustav Hillstrom

Constantly scanning the ice, Hillstrom becomes a threat with his awareness and decision-making. He has a knack for putting himself in the right spot to either defuse an opponent's rush or find a soft spot in the offensive zone. He doesn’t have the flashy on-the-puck skill to be much more than a bottom six two-way center who kills penalties. He already got in games with Brynäs last season at the SHL, and for a defensively responsible center, his role will likely expand this year.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #15 New Jersey Devils – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Mon, 26 May 2025 14:32:08 +0000

NEWARK, NJ - JULY 03: Anton Silayev (52) skates during New Jersey Devils Development Camp on July 3, 2024 at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House in Newark, New Jersey.
(Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

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New Jersey 25 Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW JERSEY DEVILS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #20

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Josh Bell — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 13:00:49 +0000

_{NEWARK, NJ - JULY 14: New Jersey Devils defenseman Seamus Casey (72) skates during New Jersey Devils Development Camp on July 14, 2023, at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 20th (Previous Rank - 26th)
GM: Tom Fitzgerald Hired: July 2020
COACH: Sheldon Keefe Hired: May 2024

The New Jersey Devils missed the postseason for the 11th time in 14 years, and yet, they remain one of the more intriguing teams in the league on the cusp of a breakout. With a young core headlined by Jack Hughes (23 years old), Jesper Bratt (26), Nico Hischier (25), Luke Hughes (20), Simon Nemec (20), and Timo Meier (27), it feels like this is just the beginning of a fruitful window for this east coast franchise.

While their current prospect system hovers around the midrange, the Devils still carry some intriguing young talent, particularly on the backend. Seamus Casey (ranked 81st) has signed and is expected to report to Utica for the 2024-25 season, while recently drafted Anton Silayev (24th), adds further promise to their defensive pipeline. With these additions, combined with the already graduated pieces, the future of the Devils' blue line looks secure for the next decade. Don’t overlook fifth-round defender Topias Vilén (184th), who is developing nicely as a low-key option after posting 29 points in 54 games during his rookie campaign in the AHL.

A little further from home, the Devils’ remaining top 200 prospects include Arseny Gritsyuk (127th), now 23, who continues to produce in Russia, and Lenni Hämeenaho (151st), who has consistently upped his game each year in Liiga.

Between the pipes, GM Tom Fitzgerald made moves to shore up their immediate goaltending needs, signing veterans Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. Additionally, they used their 2024 second-round pick to select one of the more intriguing goaltending prospects in this year’s draft, Mikhail Yegorov. Ranked 253rd in our McKeen’s rankings, Yegorov will bring his skills to Boston University in 2024-25. While the Devils boast a lot of depth with six goaltenders under contract, the overall quality still lags behind other teams.

Exciting times are on the horizon for New Jersey, with or without a top-rated prospect system.

New Jersey Devils Top-15 Prospects

1. Anton Silayev

Gone are the days when giant defencemen with limited skating and stickhandling were prized for their physicality. Today’s ideal defenceman excels in mobility, transition, and puck-handling, and Russian prospect Anton Silayev exemplifies this new breed. At just 17, Silayev achieved unprecedented success in the KHL, setting records for points by a U18 defenceman and showing off impressive offensive skills despite a modest start. Silayev's physical presence is matched by his exceptional coordination and skating ability. Unlike most players of his size, he moves fluidly, protects the puck effectively, and displays deceptive footwork. His ability to join the rush, find gaps, and shoot from the point is notable, and his lateral movement and strength make him effective in shutting down attackers. Though he experienced some inconsistency and reduced ice time later in the season, Silayev’s unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism suggests he could become an exceptional NHL defenceman.

2. Seamus Casey

Drafted 46th overall by the Devils in 2022, Seamus Casey didn't grab headlines in his sophomore year at Michigan, but quietly put together a strong season. The undersized defenceman (5-foot-9, 161 pounds) chipped in offensively with seven goals and 38 assists for 45 points in 40 games. His skating and puck-moving ability remain his biggest strengths, allowing him to contribute in transition and spark the offence. However, questions linger about his defensive play. While he boasts good positioning, his size can be a disadvantage in board battles and against bigger forwards. Improving his physicality will be crucial as he progresses to the pro game. Overall, his sophomore season was a step in the right direction. He showcased his offensive potential while continuing to develop defensively. Casey could develop into a reliable two-way defenceman at the NHL level.

3. Arseny Gritsyuk

Arseni Gritsyuk's 2023-24 campaign was a coming-of-age party in the KHL. The young winger carved out a niche on SKA St. Petersburg's roster, notching 38 points (19 goals, 19 assists) in 50 regular-season games. While the scoring totals are respectable, it was his playoff performance that truly turned heads. He emerged as a postseason difference-maker, tallying six points in 10 games and helping SKA reach the Gagarin Cup quarterfinals. The knock on his game used to be his inconsistency. Flashes of brilliance were often overshadowed by stretches of disappearing acts. However, this past season showcased a newfound maturity in his game. He remained a threat offensively, but his defensive awareness and overall work ethic took a noticeable leap. Gritsyuk's stock is undoubtedly on the rise. While another year in the KHL could be beneficial, whispers of a potential NHL jump are starting to surface. His blend of offensive skill and improving two-way play makes him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams searching for young wingers with high ceilings.

4. Lenni Hameenaho

Drafted 58th overall by the Devils in 2023, Lenni Hämeenaho's Liiga season started with a bang. The Finnish winger led Porin Ässät in scoring early on, showcasing the offensive flair that led to the Devils drafting him. He finished the year with a respectable 14 goals and 31 points in 46 games, but whispers of a potential breakout faded as the season progressed. While displaying flashes of brilliance – slick dekes, pinpoint passes – consistency remained a concern. There were stretches where he disappeared offensively, raising questions about his overall impact. However, at 19 years old, there's plenty of time to refine his game. The Devils have a decision to make. He could benefit from another year in Liiga to solidify his production. But a taste of North American hockey in the AHL could also be an option. One thing is clear: Hämeenaho's development is worth watching. He has the tools to be a future contributor for the Devils, but consistency will be key.

5. Topias Vilen

Topias Vilen's first taste of pro hockey was a mixed bag. Splitting time between the AHL's Utica Comets (54 games) and the ECHL's Adirondack Thunder (six games), Vilen showcased his physical tools (6-foot-1, 194 pounds) and strong skating. He chipped in offensively with 39 points (five goals, 34 assists) across both leagues. However, consistency, once again, remains a sticking point. Vilen would impress by delivering a pinpoint breakout pass or orchestrating a shutdown defensive play – but these moments were interspersed with stretches of invisibility. Decision-making can be suspect at times, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. The Devils’ prospect remains a boom-or-bust proposition. Refining his decision-making and maintaining a higher level of engagement will be crucial. If he can do so, his future as a reliable two-way defenceman with offensive upside remains tantalizing. Devils’ fans should be keeping a close eye on this prospect.

6. Mikhail Yegorov

It’s intriguing to consider how Mikhail Yegorov’s draft stock might have been even higher if his situation last season had been different. Ranked first among North American goalies by NHL Central Scouting, his potential is evident, but his stock could have risen further if Russia had participated in international tournaments and if Omaha had made a USHL playoff run. Despite some subpar statistics, Yegorov is one of the most balanced and well-rounded goalies from the 2024 class. He has ideal NHL size, athleticism, refined technique, and impressive focus, demonstrated by his ability to handle a high volume of shots behind a weak team. His lower ranking compared to Carter George and Pavel Moysevich was due to his limited high-level experience and lack of performance in critical moments, but he does have the tools to outperform them in the long run. He should have another season in the USHL prior to making the jump to the NCAA’s Boston University.

7. Nolan Foote

Nolan Foote's 2023-24 season was a masterclass in "what could have been." Drafted 27th overall in 2019, the winger battled injuries all year. He appeared in a mere four games for New Jersey, registering a single point. A conditioning stint with their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, showed flashes of his potential (three goals, one assist in four games), but ultimately wasn't enough of a sample size to crack the NHL lineup consistently. This stop-start development is a recurring theme for Foote. His blend of size (6-foot-3) and skill is undeniable, but staying healthy remains a major obstacle. The question for Devils fans – and fantasy hockey enthusiasts alike – is whether Foote can overcome his injury woes and finally translate his potential into NHL production. The 2024-25 season will be a critical year for the young forward’s development.

8. Chase Stillman

Chase Stillman's first pro season in the AHL wasn't a headline grabber, but it offered valuable development minutes for the Devils' 2021 first rounder. He notched 24 points (14 goals, 10 assists) in 54 games for the Utica Comets, a decent showing for a rookie. The knock on him coming out of juniors was inconsistency. While flashes of his hard-nosed play and scoring touch were evident, there were stretches where he could not find the scoresheet. This pattern continued in the AHL, raising questions about his offensive consistency at the pro level. However, there were bright spots. There was a willingness to play a physical game, racking up 72 penalty minutes. His skating remains a strength, allowing him to create space and pressure defenders. The team will likely want to see more consistent offensive production this season, but Stillman's rookie campaign offered a glimpse of his potential as a future bottom six forward who can contribute on both ends of the ice.

9. Jakub Malek

Fourth-round pick Jakub Malek turned heads in Finland's Liiga last season. The 6-foot-4 netminder posted a respectable 0.914 save percentage across 27 games with Ilves, solidifying his reputation as a strong prospect. He showcased good positioning and a calm demeanour in the crease. While not overly athletic, his size allows him to cover a lot of net. However, consistency remains a question mark. There were stretches where he looked like a future NHL starter, followed by games where rebound control became an issue. Development in puck handling and communication could also benefit his future. Overall, 2023-24 was a positive step and one that New Jersey hopes continues moving forward. The Devils might be tempted to bring him to North America this season, likely starting in the AHL. A strong showing there could put him on the fast track to the NHL.

10. Josh Filmon

Josh Filmon enjoyed a productive season statistically, but questions linger about his overall development. The 6-foot-3 winger notched a respectable 27 goals and 67 points in 64 WHL games for the Swift Current Broncos. However, that production came after a scorching 47-goal campaign the year prior. While Filmon continues to show a knack for finding the net, there are concerns about his consistency and playmaking ability. The Devils would like to see him elevate his game beyond pure goal-scoring and become a more well-rounded offensive threat. There's also a desire for him to demonstrate a stronger understanding of the defensive side of the puck. Despite these concerns, the scoring prowess remains intriguing. The team might be content to see him return to the WHL for another year to develop his overall game. However, a pro debut in the AHL isn't entirely out of the question, especially if he can rediscover his scoring touch from the previous season.

11. Adam Beckman

Adam Beckman is an offensive dynamo with excellent puck skills and a sharp hockey sense. His ability to create scoring opportunities and finish plays with precision stands out. While his defensive game could use refinement, Beckman’s impressive vision, quick release, and scoring touch make him a high-upside prospect with significant NHL potential.

12. Samu Salminen

Samu Salminen's journey from the U20 SM-sarja to the NCAA's University of Connecticut has been steady. He posted 17 points in each of his first two seasons, showing a well-rounded skill set and strong hockey IQ, especially on the power play. However, his skating remains a concern, not matching his offensive creativity. His continued development in Connecticut will be key in determining if he can refine his skating and become a consistent top six forward in the NHL.

13. Herman Traff

Herman Träff might not have flashy point totals, but he excels in his play style. A big, physical winger with explosive skating and a wicked wrist shot, Träff plays with intensity and is not afraid to challenge defenders. His confidence can lead to risky plays, but it's part of his learning process. While his game reading and decision-making were tested in the SHL and HockeyAllsvenskan, he used his size and skating effectively as a forechecker. Träff could develop into a well-rounded winger with goal-scoring potential.

14. Ethan Edwards

Ethan Edwards is a skilled defenceman with impressive offensive instincts and a strong skating stride. His ability to transition the puck and contribute to the power play stands out. While his defensive zone positioning requires refinement, Edwards’ dynamic offensive game and agility make him a promising prospect with significant NHL potential.

15. Cam Squires

Cam Squires is an energetic forward with a high work rate and solid offensive instincts. His speed and tenacity make him effective on the forecheck, while his sharp vision and playmaking ability create scoring chances. Though his defensive game requires refinement, Squires’ skill and work ethic offer significant NHL potential as a dynamic, high-energy player.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #26 New Jersey Devils – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Fri, 31 May 2024 12:54:57 +0000

What a difference a year makes. After coming in with the No. 1 prospect pool in McKeen’s 2023 Prospect Guide, the New Jersey Devils have slid to the bottom of the pack. The biggest reason for this is the graduating class, with top prospects Luke Hughes, Simon Nemec, and Alexander Holtz making the jump to the big club this year. They add to arguably the best young core in the league, with Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes, Dougie Hamilton (who missed most of the season), Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier all under contract. This offseason will be interesting to see what happens with RFA Dawson Mercer, who’s more than earned a sizable raise throughout the start of his young career. The decision on Nolan Foote will be interesting as well, another RFA who hasn’t yet broken out.

General manager Tom Fitzgerald is approaching four years at the helm of this group, and the team is looking up. There’s a lot of faith in the group that’s here now though, as outside 2022 draftee Seamus Casey, the prospect cupboard has been quite depleted. There are some promising depth pieces such as Arseniy Gritsyuk and Lenni Hameenaho, but the system doesn’t look as it used to. However, the Devils have done well in keeping the majority of their high picks in the upcoming drafts, maintaining their first rounders for the next three years. Expect this to be an active team this offseason as they look to push for a playoff spot in 2024-25, faltering last season after showing so much promise in 2021-22. Fitzgerald will not hesitate to move picks and prospects if he can resolve his goaltending situation. Seeing what new hire Sheldon Keefe can do with this group will be interesting to keep an eye on.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Seamus Casey	D	20	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	`22(46th)	40	7	38	45	14
2	Arseni Gritsyuk	RW	23	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	`19(129th)	50	19	19	38	8
3	Lenni Hameenaho	RW	19	6-0/175	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	`23(58th)	46	14	17	31	10
4	Topias Vilen	D	21	6-1/195	Utica (AHL)	`21(129th)	54	2	27	29	16
5	Graeme Clarke	RW	23	5-11/175	Utica (AHL)	`19(80th)	67	25	24	49	30
6	Josh Filmon	LW	20	6-2/160	Swift Current (WHL)	`22(166th)	64	27	40	67	30
7	Nolan Foote	LW	23	6-3/190	Utica (AHL)	T(TB-2/20)	4	3	1	4	2
					New Jersey (NHL)	T(TB-2/20)	4	1	0	1	0
8	Chase Stillman	RW	21	6-1/185	Utica (AHL)	`21(29th)	54	14	10	24	72
9	Jakub Malek	G	22	6-4/170	Ilves (Fin-Liiga)	`21(100th)	27	16	4	2.32	0.915
10	Samu Salminen	C	21	6-2/185	Connecticut (HE)	`21(68th)	35	7	10	17	35
11	Tyler Brennan	G	20	6-4/185	Adirondack (ECHL)	`22(102nd)	13	5	5	3.16	0.896
12	Ethan Edwards	D	21	5-10/165	Michigan (B1G)	`20(120th)	21	3	7	10	20
13	Cam Squires	RW	19	5-11/165	Cape Breton (QMJHL)	`23(122nd)	66	33	39	72	53
14	Charlie Leddy	D	20	6-1/185	Boston College (HE)	`22(126th)	39	0	8	8	12
15	Michael Vukojevic	D	22	6-3/210	Utica (AHL)	`19(82nd)	49	3	7	10	32

1. Seamus Casey, D, University of Michigan (NCAA)

Drafted 46th overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2022, Seamus Casey didn't grab headlines in his sophomore year at Michigan, but quietly put together a strong season. The undersized defenseman (5’ 9”, 161 lbs) chipped in offensively with seven goals and 38 assists for 45 points in 40 games. His skating and puck-moving ability remain his biggest strengths, allowing him to contribute in transition and spark the offense. However, questions linger about his defensive play. While he boasts good positioning, his size can be a disadvantage in board battles and against bigger forwards. Improving his physicality will be crucial as he progresses to the pro game. Overall, his sophomore season was a step in the right direction. He showcased his offensive potential while continuing to develop defensively. Casey could develop into a reliable two-way defenseman at the NHL level.

2. Arseni Gritsyuk, RW, SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)

Arseni Gritsyuk's 2023-24 campaign was a coming-of-age party in the KHL. The young winger carved out a niche on SKA St. Petersburg's roster, notching 38 points (19 goals, 19 assists) in 50 regular-season games. While the scoring totals are respectable, it was his playoff performance that truly turned heads. He emerged as a postseason difference-maker, tallying six points in 10 games and helping SKA reach the Gagarin Cup quarterfinals. The knock on his game used to be his inconsistency. Flashes of brilliance were often overshadowed by stretches of disappearing acts. However, this season showcased a newfound maturity in his game. He remained a threat offensively, but his defensive awareness and overall work ethic took a noticeable leap. Gritsyuk's stock is undoubtedly on the rise. While another year in the KHL could be beneficial, whispers of a potential NHL jump are starting to surface. His blend of offensive skill and improving two-way play makes him an intriguing prospect for NHL teams searching for young wingers with high ceilings.

3. Lenni Hameenaho, RW, Assat (Liiga)

4. Topias Vilen, D, Utica Comets (AHL)

Topias Vilen's first taste of pro hockey was a mixed bag. Splitting time between the AHL's Utica Comets (54 games) and the ECHL's Adirondack Thunder (six games), Vilen showcased his physical tools (6’ 1”, 194 lbs) and strong skating. He chipped in offensively with 39 points (five goals, 34 assists) across both leagues. However, consistency, once again, remains a sticking point. Vilen would impress delivering a pinpoint breakout pass, or orchestrating a shutdown defensive play – but these moments were interspersed with stretches of invisibility. Decision-making can be suspect at times, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. The Devils' prospect remains a boom-or-bust proposition. Refining his decision-making and maintaining a higher level of engagement will be crucial. If he can do so, his upside as a reliable two-way defenseman with offensive upside remains tantalizing.

5. Graeme Clarke, RW, Utica Comets (AHL)

Graeme Clarke's 2023-24 was a season of steady improvement, but with lingering doubts. The Devils' 2019 third round pick enjoyed a strong AHL campaign with the Utica Comets, registering 49 points (25 goals, 24 assists) in 67 games. This marked a slight dip from his previous season's point total, but his overall impact remained positive. However, his NHL audition was a brief one. A three-game stint with the Devils produced no points, highlighting the gap between the AHL and the NHL. While he possesses a scorer's touch and good size (6’, 175 lbs), his defensive awareness needs refinement. The upcoming season will be crucial. Can he translate his AHL success to the NHL level? He'll need to show more consistency and improve his defensive play to earn a permanent role with the big club. Clarke's offensive talent is undeniable, but his NHL future hinges on becoming a more well-rounded player.

6. Josh Filmon, LW, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

Josh Filmon enjoyed a productive season statistically, but questions linger about his overall development. The 6’ 3” winger notched a respectable 27 goals and 67 points in 64 WHL games for the Swift Current Broncos. However, that production came after a scorching 47-goal campaign the year prior. While Filmon continues to show a knack for finding the net, there are concerns about his consistency and playmaking ability. The Devils would like to see him elevate his game beyond pure goal-scoring and become a more well-rounded offensive threat. There's also a desire for him to demonstrate a stronger understanding of the defensive side of the puck. Despite these concerns, the scoring prowess remains intriguing. The team might be content to see him return to the WHL for another year to develop his overall game. However, a pro debut in the AHL isn't entirely out of the question, especially if he can rediscover his scoring touch from the previous season.

7. Nolan Foote, LW, Utica Comets (AHL)

Nolan Foote's 2023-24 season was a masterclass in "what could have been." Drafted 27th overall in 2019, the winger battled injuries all year. He appeared in a mere four games for New Jersey, registering a single point. A conditioning stint with their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, showed flashes of his potential (three goals, one assist in four games), but ultimately wasn't enough of a sample size to crack the NHL lineup consistently. This stop-start development is a recurring theme for Foote. His blend of size (6’ 3”) and skill is undeniable, but staying healthy remains a major obstacle. The question for Devils fans – and fantasy hockey enthusiasts alike – is whether Foote can overcome his injury woes and finally translate his potential into NHL production. The 2024-25 season will be a critical year for the young forward.

8. Chase Stillman, RW, Utica Comets (AHL)

Chase Stillman's first pro season in the AHL wasn't a headline grabber, but it offered valuable development minutes for the Devils' 2021 first-rounder. He notched 24 points (14 goals, 10 assists) in 54 games for the Utica Comets, a decent showing for a rookie. The knock on him coming out of juniors was inconsistency. While flashes of his hard-nosed play and scoring touch were evident, there were stretches where he could not find the scoresheet. This pattern continued in the AHL, raising questions about his offensive consistency at the pro level. However, there were bright spots. There was a willingness to play a physical game, racking up 72 penalty minutes. His skating remains a strength, allowing him to create space and pressure defenders. The team will likely want to see more consistent offensive production next season, but Stillman's rookie campaign offered a glimpse of his potential as a future bottom-six forward who can contribute on both ends of the ice.

9. Jakub Malek, G, Ilves (Liiga)

Fourth-round pick Jakub Malek turned heads in Finland's Liiga this season. The 6’ 4” netminder posted a respectable .914 save percentage across 27 games with Ilves, solidifying his reputation as a strong prospect. He showcased good positioning and a calm demeanor in the crease. While not overly athletic, his size allows him to cover a lot of net. However, consistency remains a question mark. There were stretches where he looked like a future NHL starter, followed by games where rebounds control became an issue. Development in puck-handling and communication could also benefit him. Overall, 2023-24 was a positive step. The Devils might be tempted to bring him to North America next season, likely starting in the AHL. A strong showing there could put him on the fast track to the NHL.

10. Samu Salminen, C, University of Denver (NCAA)

Samu Salminen has taken an interesting path thus far, coming from the U20 SM-sarja to the NCAA’s University of Connecticut. He’s been consistent in his first two seasons, with 17 points each season, albeit in eight more games this year. He wasn't the focal point of offense on these teams, but his well-rounded skillset remained on display. His hockey IQ and ability to find open teammates were assets, particularly on the power play. However, questions about his skating – a concern coming out of the draft – linger. While not a liability, it doesn't quite match his offensive creativity. Further development in Connecticut will be interesting to watch. Can he refine his skating and become a more consistent contributor? The answer will determine if he reaches his full potential as a complementary top-six forward at the NHL level.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW JERSEY DEVILS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #5

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 12:15:37 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 13: Devils defenseman Luke Hughes (43) stickhandles into the offensive zone during the New Jersey Devils versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on April 13, 2023 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

Top 20 New Jersey Devils Prospects

1. Luke Hughes

Selected fourth overall in the 2021 Draft, it was just a matter of time before Hughes made the jump to the NHL to join his brother Jack with the Devils. There may very well be a point where, looking back at this draft, Luke Hughes emerges as the top player from his class. Drafted as the clear No. 1 defender from the USNTDP, he made the jump to the NCAA’s University of Michigan in 2021-22, where he had a very strong year as one of the most productive defenders in the league. He was honoured as a Hobey Baker finalist, the Big Ten Rookie of the Year, and named to numerous All-Star Teams. Last year, he had an even better season, including captaining Team USA to a Bronze Medal at the WJC. He’s a poster child for the modern-era defenseman, with a transition game that will translate effortlessly to the NHL, albeit with greater size than many who share the other traits of his game, such as older brother Quinn, of the Vancouver Canucks. He’ll be a top two defender for the Devils and looks to stick in the NHL this season.

2. Simon Nemec

Yet another potential game-breaking defender in the Devils’ system, Nemec was selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft after an incredible 2021-22 season. His draft year included being named MVP of the Hlinka Gretzky, an Olympic Bronze medal, and a World Championship appearance, on top of a dominant regular season and playoff run with HK Nitra in his homeland of Slovakia. His introduction to North America started off slow but he found his game as the season progressed and seemed to be back to his exceptional ways by the end of the year. He’s a very mature, calm player that can surprise you with his speed and creativity. He drives the play, quarterbacking his team from the back end. He’s a very strong puck mover, capable of using both his feet or his hands to make plays. He’s also solid in his own end, showing off impressive defensive awareness. He has top two potential and could very well become one of the best offensive defenders in the league.

3. Alexander Holtz

With many top players from the 2020 Draft already impacting at the NHL level, patience has seemed to grow thin for seventh-overall pick Holtz. Selected from Djurgardens in the SHL, he spent just one more season in the league before coming overseas. He joined the AHL’s Utica Comets full-time in 2021-22, playing at nearly a point-per-game pace throughout the season. He was close to that level again last season and has seen time in the NHL in both seasons as well. Holtz is very likely to make the shift to full-time NHLer this season, thanks to his hard, accurate shot, his impressive movement of the puck, and his improving ability to get to the high-danger areas, which has been a work in progress throughout his development. He has the potential to be a top line sniper and could be one of the best goal-scorers in the league during his prime.

4. Arseny Gritsyuk

Drafted way down at 129th overall in 2019, Gritsyuk has continued to outplay that selection. When the Devils drafted him, he had just finished his rookie season in the MHL and had helped Team Russia to a bronze medal at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup as well as a silver medal at the Under-18s. He has remained in Russia through his four post-draft seasons as well, working his way up to the KHL where he has become a full-time player the past two seasons, which included winning the KHL Rookie of the Year award in 2021-22. The forward boasts a hard, deceptive shot but can dish it out as well, doing well to drive the puck to the middle via passing or carrying it in himself. He’s very light on his feet and is fearless in his pursuit. He should be an excellent secondary-scoring winger in the NHL. He’s signed with Avangard Omsk through the 2024-25 season, so additional patience will be required.

5. Seamus Casey

Casey has the potential to be the steal of the 2022 Draft. His draft year was a little up and down with the USNTDP, resulting in him being selected 46th overall despite early thoughts of him as a first rounder. Now with NCAA University of Michigan, he’s back to the style of play that earned him first-round consideration. He’s an excellent quarterback, using great vision to scan the ice and lead his team’s attack. He has a very fluid approach that makes it seem like the game comes easily to him. His four-way mobility stands out in the offensive end, where he can surprise teams with his agility and creativity. There have been some concerns regarding his processing and decision-making, but he took great strides in these areas last season. He’s well on his way to outplaying his draft slot and becoming a top four NHL defender.

6. Josh Filmon

It’s not often that a player drafted in the sixth round is signed and makes the jump to the next level the following season, but that’s exactly what Filmon has done. Selected 166th overall in the 2022 Draft from the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos, he returned to the Broncos as an alternate captain, putting up 75 points and 47 goals in just 64 games. The Devils’ brass saw all they needed to, signing him to his entry-level deal and bringing him up to the AHL to end the season. The winger seems to do all the little things right, playing a really smart, consistent game. His skating is an area that needs to improve if he is to succeed in the AHL and NHL. Still, he’s long seemed like his game would translate easily to the next level. He could carve out a bottom six role for himself, but it’s more likely that he’s a depth option.

7. Nolan Foote

A prospect acquired by the Devils via trade, Foote was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019, 27th overall. He went back to the WHL Kelowna Rockets in 2019-20 as the team captain, and the Devils landed him later that season in a deadline swap and didn’t waste any time. They had him playing in the AHL in 2020-21 and he has spent the past three seasons there, with brief appearances in the NHL each season. He’s taken notable steps forward each year, improving his speed, his awareness, and his hands. He hasn’t taken over the AHL as was hoped, but he’s looking better and better each year and his production reflects that. While he no longer looks like a top six option, he still has middle-six potential and should be a reliable secondary scoring option. Now it’s just a matter of when.

8. Topias Vilen

The Devils have had an excellent run of quality later round picks in recent drafts, and Vilen is a poster child for that. The Devils called his name 129th overall in 2021 from the Liiga’s Pelicans. Looking at his stats, it can seem that he hasn’t taken huge strides forward in his development. However, Vilen is more of a defensive defender, and his mature style of play is enough to carry him to the AHL and potentially the NHL. He plays big minutes, his angling out on the rush and his active stick are very impressive, and when he needs to, he can kick off transition with a solid first pass. Last season he began showing that he can contribute on the scoreboard too, a nice addition to the package he brings. His ceiling isn’t overly high, but he could come in as a bottom-pairing, shut-down d-man that is used heavily on the penalty kill.

9. Akira Schmid

One of the most improved players in New Jersey’s system last season. Actually, Schmid may have been one of the most improved prospects in all of hockey. From platoon netminder in the AHL to starting NHL playoff games, his progression has been rapid and impressive. Is this sustainable? We’ve seen other young netminders rise through the Devils’ system quickly in recent years, such as Mackenzie Blackwood and Nico Daws, only to see them quickly crash back down. Somehow, Schmid feels different. The big netminder is an incredible athlete and his play tracking ability has improved so much since his USHL days. He flat out stole some games for the Devils down the stretch last year and he enters this season in direct competition with Vitek Vanecek for the starting job. While he is no longer eligible for the Calder trophy, he has definitely emerged as one of the top young goalies in the NHL and should be set to have a good season with an upstart Devils team.

10. Graeme Clarke

New Jersey’s patience with Clarke has paid off as he rewarded them with a tremendous third pro year at AHL Utica, leading the team in scoring by a significant margin. No one has ever doubted Clarke’s skill level, and the skating continues to improve making him a better pro. The road to success for Clarke has been long and winding. The former Ottawa 67 and older brother to top Los Angeles Kings’ prospect Brandt Clarke, Graeme has significant adversity. He had to spend some time in Slovakia during the OHL Covid shutdown. He has also battled shoulder injuries. But this has all led to him finally having a breakout year at the pro level and he is now positioned as a top call up option heading into 2023-24. Clarke’s skill level with the puck is among the best in the New Jersey organization and as his strength has improved, he’s been able to create chances more consistently at the pro level. Clarke’s shot is also a weapon, especially on the powerplay. Not all paths to the NHL are created equal and Clarke is very much still a candidate to become a top six forward in the future.11. Lenni Hameenaho
A recent second round selection, Hameenaho has a chance to be a solid pro because of his combination of high IQ and work ethic away from the puck. How high his offensive upside is remains a question mark, but he should at least become a quality role player.

12. Tyce Thompson

Thompson’s return to full season play following a shoulder injury the year prior was a bit of a disappointment. Hopefully a healthy offseason and a restart can help him regain his form this year and push him back near the top of New Jersey’s prospect pool.

13. Chase Stillman

While Stillman may never live up to the hype associated with being a first-round selection, he still provides a lot of value on the ice with his energy, physicality, and pest-like demeanour. Stillman will be turning pro this year and expectations regarding his offensive contributions should probably be tempered.

14. Nico Daws

Daws may have been passed on the depth chart by Schmid, but he’s still a solid goaltending prospect. The big man continues to work hard to improve his quickness and play tracking and he has a chance to push for a full-time back-up role in the near future.

15. Samu Salminen

It took some time for Salminen’s eligibility to be confirmed, but when he arrived at UConn, he performed well as a freshman. Salminen’s IQ is his best quality and it will be interesting to see what he can do with a full year at the college level this season.

16. Ethan Edwards

Edwards is really settling in at the college level with the University of Michigan as he is steadily climbing their depth chart. He heads into his junior year as one of the team’s prominent returning players and could be in line for a breakout season.

18. Shane Bowers

A former first round pick, it’s been a struggle for Bowers through four pro seasons. After being acquired for Reilly Walsh, maybe the Devils can finally unlock Bowers’ upside and turn him into a useful NHLer.

19. Tyler Brennan

It seems very likely that Brennan will need to begin his pro career at the ECHL level this season, and that’s totally fine. However, he never really reached the heights many expected of him during his WHL career. Tracking his development will be interesting.

20. Charlie Leddy

Leddy’s future role at the pro level will probably be strictly defensive oriented. His offensive upside from the blueline is likely limited, but he’s mobile, competitive, and can play the right side. He is returning to Boston College for his sophomore season.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW JERSEY DEVILS – Top 20 Prospects

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 19:31:17 +0000

NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 04: New Jersey Devils right wing Alexander Holtz (10) skates during the first period of the pre-season National Hockey League game between the New Jersey Devils and the Washington Capitals on October 4, 2021 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

1 - Luke Hughes D

While the NHL at large may be more familiar with the two Hughes brothers currently playing in the NHL, Jack, and Quinn, there’s another Hughes brother on the horizon, and he’s got a strong chance to be just as much of a star as his brothers are. Luke Hughes, the fourth-overall pick of the 2021 draft, is among the most gifted defensive prospects in hockey. Hughes’ last season was his freshman year at the University of Michigan, and he led all blueliners in the entire NCAA in scoring. Again, he did that not only as a freshman but also as one of the youngest players in college hockey. Hughes, next to 2022 second-overall pick Simon Nemec, is the face of a next generation of Devils blueliners that looks more and more promising with each passing year. The core of Hughes’ on-ice profile is his skating. Hughes is as close to a mechanically perfect skater as one can be, with a stride that’s as smooth as butter. There’s an efficiency to the way he moves that also forms the foundation to his offensive game. The manipulation of his own speed, timing, and stop-and-start ability lets him create space on the ice. He’s active offensively both with the puck on his stick and without it. With the puck on his stick, he aggressively looks to make plays for his teammates, and he’s extremely good at getting pucks to the net and finding ways to score goals from the blueline. Without the puck on his stick, Hughes has shown an ability and willingness to leverage his mobility to clear room on the ice for his teammates. His overall offensive toolbox is so refined that it makes for an easy projection to the NHL level. His defense, while more of a work-in-progress, has made great strides since his days at the National Team Development Program. He may not end up a shutdown force at the NHL level, but it’s not out of the realm of possibility that he finds his way onto an NHL penalty kill. In total, Hughes is an extremely promising defenseman who matches both raw talent and careful polish. He has a real chance to become a number-one defenseman in the NHL. - EH

2 - Simon Nemec D

Nemec broke all sorts of records for U20 defensemen in the Slovak men’s league and then led all defensemen in postseason points. After a successful season, he became the 2^nd overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft and the highest-drafted defenseman in his draft class. The young Slovak has played among men for the past three seasons and represented his country internationally at two World Championships and one Olympics. He is an extremely mature player for his age. Whether he gets a shot with the New Jersey Devils at the start of the season should be within his grasp, however it is more likely he will spend the majority of the year in the AHL, due to the full right-side of the Devils´ defense. Nemec is a two-way defenseman who likes to join the attack and play offensively. He is a capable powerplay option, an extremely smart player with great vision and passing game. He is not overly physical but is quite strong and can stand his own. A notable weakness is his shot, especially given the lack of strength he puts to it. Nemec has really good hands for a defenseman and enjoys having the puck on his stick. He is not as flashy as some of other top choices in the recent draft, but his floor is among the highest in his entire draft class. He projects as a top-pairing defenseman who should contribute offensively and run the PP. - MD

3 - Alexander Holtz RW

If you are the New Jersey Devils, do you make room on the roster this year for one of the best prospects in the NHL after his encouraging performance in the AHL last year? After bringing in Ondrej Palat and Erik Haula this offseason, their forward ranks are extremely crowded. Yet Holtz (and a few other prospects) proved that they are ready for the NHL with their performance in Utica last year. Holtz’s game is built to be a top six, complementary offensive weapon at the NHL level. Not only does he possess an excellent shot, but he also has great scoring instincts. The puck seems magnetically drawn to him within ten feet of the crease and he rarely whiffs on his opportunities. Holtz supports play in the offensive zone well too, with a game predicated on quick touches meant to keep plays alive deep in the zone. As he continues to upgrade his speed and his strength on the puck, he should develop into a consistent 30 goal scorer at the NHL level. So, what do the Devils do with him this season? If he plays in the NHL, it will likely be on a scoring line, and he will have a very real shot at putting up the kind of numbers required of a Calder Trophy winner. Otherwise, New Jersey probably sends him to the AHL for another year (until an injury dictates his call-up) or negotiates a loan to Sweden for a year until a few contracts come off the books (like Haula, Tatar, Johnsson, and Wood). - BO

4 - Arseni Gritsyuk RW

It would be fair to say that Arseny Gritsyuk has established himself as a top KHL prospect over the last season, even though he really had to earn the trust of coach Bob Hartley and has also received a few trophies to back up that claim, including the KHL rookie of the year award and the Olympics silver medal. Furthermore, Gritsyuk played a major role in making that silver medal happen for the Russian team, scoring the winner in the nerve-wrecking semifinal shootout. Looking at the coming season it should be a near lock for him to take on a top six role for his KHL team and even though a sophomore slump is a possibility, it doesn’t feel likely in this case, as Gritsyuk has the smarts and creativity in addition to a rich skillset. It should also be mentioned that he is in the final year of his contract and if everything goes well there is a good chance that he will be able to crack the NHL roster short thereafter. There are plenty of reasons for Devils fans to be excited and follow Gritsyuk closely this season, not to mention the parallels in his development with that of another recent Russian 5th round pick in Kirill Kaprizov. Not that we expect Grisyuk to be another Kaprizov, but this is a fun prospect to be excited about and the hype train is picking up speed. - VF

5 - Shakir Mukhamadullin D

A surprise first round pick by the Devils in 2020, Mukhamadullin has already signed with New Jersey. After finishing last year in the AHL with Utica, he returned to Salavat Yulayev of KHL this season under loan. He's a huge defender who is confident in his mobility and readiness to join the rushing game. He is someone who is extremely confident on the ice; he knows his role and plays it. Mukhamadullin is aggressive physically as a defensive player and will step up to make plays. He also knows how to keep his man in front of him by exhibiting good gap control and positioning. Offensively, his biggest weapon is a strong shot from the point. As a puck mover, he is not extremely dynamic, and his decision making will need to improve for him to be a point producer at the NHL level. Mukhumadullin is spending the upcoming season at Salavat Yulaev (as mentioned on loan), after which he will probably move on to the NHL. More should be known about his upside after this current season, as the Devils will be looking for him to take on a larger role as a puck carrier in the KHL. If he can continue to make adjustments, he has the physical tools to be a strong two-way, second pairing defender. - DB

6 - Fabian Zetterlund LW

It might shock people, but Zetterlund is more likely to earn a permanent roster spot with the Devils this year than is top prospect Alexander Holtz. The reason is two-fold. Firstly, Zetterlund has progressed extremely well at the pro level, improving each of his three seasons in the AHL, and even scoring 8 points in 14 games with New Jersey last year. Secondly, he is no longer exempt from waivers, which forces the hand of the Devils unless they want to lose him for nothing. The reality is that Zetterlund is also built to play a checking line role (at least to start) more effectively than Holtz. Zetterlund has a game built to excel in a high energy, bottom six role. He consistently chases down and battles for pucks, using his strong lower body to keep plays alive. He brings it physically and is an excellent forechecker. He plays with pace and crashes the net, excelling in high traffic areas, rather than steering clear of them. His offensive upside is higher than that of your basic fourth line grinder, but it might be a role that he has to start at this coming season. The former third round pick (back in 2017) has emerged as a quality pro prospect and one of the best in a strong and deep New Jersey system. - BO

7 -Reilly Walsh D

A former standout with Harvard, Walsh has positioned himself well to challenge for a roster spot this coming season. The Devils’ blueline group largely struggled to contribute offensively last year and Walsh would go a long way to helping with that. An offensive standout, he can have a profound impact on the transition game. He can skate the puck out of trouble with his quick feet and he is a natural at quarterbacking the powerplay. Coming out of college, there were some concerns about his ability to defend at even strength, but his positioning, engagement, and overall effectiveness in his own end has improved considerably. Interestingly enough, the Devils acquired John Marino this offseason, who was one of Walsh’s defensive partners at Harvard. Is it possible that New Jersey sees the two of them pairing up this coming year in a third pairing role (with Walsh QB’ing the second powerplay unit behind Dougie Hamilton)? Walsh does have minor league options remaining, though, and that means he may be a numbers casualty due to the terrific blueline depth New Jersey has accrued. The smooth skating, offensive rearguard is definitely trending in the right direction and looks like a future top four defender for the Devils…at least at some point in the near future. - BO

8 - Nolan Foote LW

The son of former NHL defender Adam Foote, Nolan is coming off of his second pro season in the Devils’ system after being acquired for Blake Coleman. The big power forward has performed well at the AHL level and even in two cups of coffee with New Jersey. This is especially true of last season, where he scored three goals in seven games with the Devils. Foote will never be confused with a speedster, but he has worked hard to become a little quicker so that he can keep pace at the NHL level. He understands his role as a complementary piece and plays it to a tee. He drives the net with his stick on the ice and can be a fearsome net front presence. He is physical in pursuit of the puck and can dominate shifts down low, below the goal line. Foote is more than just a grinder, however, as he possesses great finishing ability because of his quick release and smooth hands. It is easy to see him becoming a long time middle six option at the NHL level, so long as he continues to improve his skating. The issue, much like was stated with Alexander Holtz, is that New Jersey’s forward group is currently crowded and that probably means Foote gets caught in a numbers game again this season. Another year in the AHL wouldn’t hurt his development as he can hopefully become one of Utica’s top scoring options and get closer to the point per game mark there before fully taking that next step. - BO

9 - Nico Daws G

It is not too often that you see a first year pro netminder thrust into NHL action, but injuries thrust Daws into significant time with the Devils last year. He handled it pretty well too, given the state of New Jersey’s defense and rebuild. The former OHL late bloomer has given New Jersey fans a lot of hope for the future with his strong rookie pro performance, however he should be given more time to develop at the AHL level this year. The Devils traded for Vitek Vanecek to pair with Mackenzie Blackwood, allowing Daws to split time with Akira Schmid at Utica. Of course, Daws could be recalled again as an injury fill-in, but at least the Devils now know that he can handle it. The 6’4 netminder can be a brick wall at times because of his positioning and play reading ability. He tracks the play extremely well and has worked hard over the last few seasons to improve his quickness, allowing him to challenge shooters more consistently. He has also worked hard to improve his ability to cleanly corral rebounds, transforming from more of a pure stopper into a true goaltender. With another strong performance at the AHL level this year, Daws could put himself into serious consideration as one of the best goaltending prospects in the NHL and push Mackenzie Blackwood as the team’s netminder of the future. - BO

10 - Seamus Casey D

Seamus Casey’s fall to 46th overall at the 2022 NHL draft was a bit of a surprise, as multiple outlets had placed late first-round or early second-round grades on the talented blueliner, who was among the best defenders at the U.S. National Team Development Program last season. But it made sense based on the defenders who went before him, as for all the attention the changing expectations of NHL defensemen get many NHL teams still prefer their blueliners to come with a bit of size. Standing at five feet and ten inches tall, Casey doesn’t have that. But he makes up for his lack of size with a few standout tools. First and foremost, Casey’s skating sets him apart. He weaves his way through the neutral zone with the puck on his stick, and his upside as a puck-moving defenseman at the NHL level is clear. Casey also can work as a power play quarterback, with the vision and hockey IQ to be a strong facilitator of play in the offensive zone. Casey’s defensive game has some holes, but that’s not due to a lack of effort. Casey is a diligent defender in his own zone, and his skating gives him value there as he can make it easier for his team to exit the zone, something that carries real defensive value. That being said, it’s simply too easy for more talented forwards to create chances with him on the ice, and Casey’s issues in the size and strength department are evident when he’s tasked with disrupting a bigger forward looking to create a scoring chance. Casey might need to be placed in a more sheltered role as a pro, but his offensive tools are definitely good enough to give him NHL upside. As a power play threat and puck mover, Casey could fashion a nice NHL career for himself after a few years of development in college. - EH

11 - Tyce Thompson

The first full season at the pro level for the former Providence star was a grind. A shoulder injury limited him, but he finished the year strong with Utica. Thompson is a power center who excels down low and near the crease. He could be a full time NHL’er by season’s end.

12 - Kevin Bahl

The hulking blueliner continues to develop nicely in the Devils’ system and has positioned himself to be in contention for an NHL role this year. He continues to work on his four way mobility.

13 - Michael Vukojevic

A potential stay at home defender for the Devils, Vukojevic just finished his second pro season with Utica. His skating and confidence with the puck continue to improve and with it, so does his projection as a future #4-6 defender.

14 - Nikita Okhotyuk

Another strong defensively oriented blueliner with Utica and former OHL’er, Okhotyuk hits like a truck and is fairly mobile for the game he plays. His upside is limited, but his strong defensive acumen makes him a potential NHL player in some regard.

15 --Chase Stillman

Thus far, Stillman’s development has not gone according to plan. His offensive game took a step back and not forward last OHL season. This season the Petes will be counting on the former first rounder to step up and be a consistent scoring threat.

16 - Graeme Clarke

The older brother of Kings’ top prospect Brandt Clarke, Graeme is a scoring winger with similar skating concerns. Adapting to the pace of play in the AHL has been a challenge, but Clarke is talented enough to eventually figure it out.

17 - Daniil Misyul

After three full years at the KHL level, Misyul’s offensive game is still non-existent. However, his combination of length and mobility does give him intriguing defensive potential. The 21 year old blueliner will spend another year in the KHL this season.

18 - Jakub Malek

A big Czech netminder Malek will be moving to Finland this season to play in Liiga with Ilves. This will be a great test for the former fourth round selection.

19 - Aarne Talvitie

Talvitie, a former Penn State product and Word Juniors standout, played well for Utica last year in his first full pro season. His NHL upside might be limited, but the competitive forward is a strong two-way presence and should carve out a career as a penalty killer and depth player.

20 - Akira Schmid

The Swiss netminder was a surprise standout for Utica this past season and has pushed his way into New Jersey’s plans. A strong athlete at 6’5, Schmid’s development has given New Jersey great depth at the goaltending position moving forward.

2021 NHL DRAFT: METROPOLITAN DIVISION

Ryan Wagman — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 19:53:16 +0000

2021 NHL Draft Review

Time to review the draft, in depth. As I have done in previous seasons, this review will cover the league one division at a time. For each team, we will offer a quick summary of their draft class, a deeper look at their first pick/first rounder(s), and then a look at what we think to be the best value pick of their draft class, and a final look at their worst value pick. Once the divisions have all been covered, a final article will go over some other miscellaneous trends of the draft that was (odds & ends), and the annual McKeens shadow draft class. Let’s dig in.

Metropolitan Division

Scott Morrow. Photo by Dan Hickling/Hickling Images

Carolina Hurricanes

2 (40) Scott Morrow, D, Shattuck St. Mary’s 18U Prep (USHS-MN)

2 (44) Aleksi Heimosalmi, D, Assat (Liiga)

2 (51) Ville Koivunen, LW, Karpat U20 (U20 SM-sarja)

3 (83) Patrik Hamrla, G, HC Energie Karlovy Vary (Czech)

3 (94) Aidan Hreschuk, D, USNTDP (USHL)

4 (109) Jackson Blake, RW, Chicago (USHL)

5 (136) Robert Orr, C, Halifax (QMJHL)

5 (147) Justin Robidas, C, Val-d’Or (QMJHL)

6 (170) Bryce Montgomery, D, London (OHL)

6 (187) Nikita Quapp, G, Krefeld Pinguine (DEL)

7 (200) Yegor Naumov, G, MHK Krylia Sovetov Moskva (MHL)

7 (209) Nikita Guslistov, C, Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)

7(219) Joel Nystrom, D, Farjestad (SHL)

Carolina traded its first-round pick on Draft Day, to Nashville, for two second rounders. The Hurricanes acquired an additional second rounder from Columbus in exchange for Jake Bean, and then traded away their own second rounder to Los Angeles for extra picks in both the third and fourth rounds. One of those extra third rounders was then traded to LA for a later third rounder as well as an extra fifth rounder. They got another third rounder from Detroit as part of the Alex Nedeljkovic/Jonathan Bernier swap, and then finally traded away their own, natural third rounder to Vegas for a third rounder next year. Shortly thereafter, Carolina traded away its own fourth round pick to Ottawa for extra picks in the fifth and sixth rounds. That doesn’t account for all of the pre-shuffling done to the picks that Carolina eventually made, as they had already added a few late round selections from trades in 2019 and 2020. At the end of the two days of drafting, Carolina had added 13 prospects to its already overflowing system.

When a team makes close to double its allotted picks, there are bound to be some head scratchers, and the new Hurricanes include their share. For example, it is rare for teams to draft multiple goaltenders in a single year, although it happens occasionally. But drafting three goalies in a single year? It has not happened, but rarely, and this was only the second such occurrence in the seven-round era of the draft, which began in 2005. Here is the full list:

Montreal, 1972 (Michel Larocque, Dave Elenbaas, Yves Archambeault, Graham Parsons)

Philadelphia, 1972 (Daryl Fedorak, David Hastings, Raynald Boutin)

Minnesota North Stars, 1974 (Pete LoPresti, Dave Heitz, Brian Holderness)

Washington, 1974 (Garth Malarchuk, Kelvin Erickson, Bob Blanchet)

Buffalo, 1975 (Bob Sauve, Don Edwards, Len Moher)

NY Rangers, 1975 (Doug Soetaert, Bill Cheropita, Tom McNamara)

St. Louis, 1976 (Mike Liut, Paul Skidmore, Jim Bales)

Montreal, 1977 (Robert Holland, Richard Sevigny, Barry Borrett, Mark Holden, Carey Walker, Jean Belisle, Bob Daly)

Philadelphia, 1977 (Yves Guillemette, Pete Peeters, Steve Jones, Mike Laycock)

St. Louis, 1978 (Jim Lockhurst, Bob Froese, Carl Bloomberg)

Winnipeg, 1981 (Marc Behrend, Bob O'Connor, Greg Dick)

Boston, 1983 (Allan LaRochelle, Terry Taillefer, Norm Foster)

Buffalo, 1983 (Tom Barrasso, Daren Puppa, Marc Hamelin)

Winnipeg, 1985 (Daniel Berthiaume, Tom Draper, Dave Quigley Jr)

New Jersey, 1988 (Chad Erickson, Bryan LaFort, Charles Hughes II)

Minnesota North Stars, 1989 (Bryan Schoen, Scott Cashman, Arturs Irbe)

Quebec Nordiques, 1989 (John Tanner, Sergei Mylnikov, Paul Krake)

Minnesota North Stars, 1990 (Roman Turek, Jeff Levy, J.P. McKersie)

New Jersey, 1990 (Martin Brodeur, Mike Dunham, Corey Schwab)

Los Angeles, 1991 (Pauli Jaks, Craig Brown, Andre Bouliane)

Minnesota North Stars, 1991 (Mike Torchia, Geoff Finch, Derek Herlofsky)

Detroit, 1992 (Greg Scott, C.J. Denomme, Ryan Bach)

Quebec, 1992 (Manny Fernandez, Steve Passmore, Aaron Ellis)

Anaheim, 1993 (Joel Gagnon, Mikhail Shtalenkov, Tom Askey)

Boston, 1994 (Yevgeni Ryabchikov, John Grahame, Neil Savary)

NY Rangers, 1997 (Jason McLean, Shawn Degagne, Johan Holmqvist)

Florida, 1999 (Alex Auld, Jean-Francois Laniel, Jonathan Charron)

Nashville, 1999 (Brian Finley, Jan Lasak, Kyle Kettles)

Los Angeles, 2001 (Terry Denike, Cristobal Huet, Sebastien Laplante)

Tampa Bay, 2002 (Joseph Pearce, Fredrik Norrena, Vasili Koshechkin)

Vancouver, 2002 (Lukas Mensator, Robert McVicar, Matt Violin)

Nashville, 2003 (Teemu Lassila, Rustam Sidikov, Miroslav Hanuljak)

Philadelphia, 2003 (David Tremblay, Rejean Beauchemin, Ville Hostikka)

San Jose, 2004 (Thomas Greiss, Jason Churchill, Derek Macintyre, Brian Mahoney-Wilson)

Philadelphia, 2015 (Felix Sandstrom, Matej Tomek, Ivan Fedotov)

Carolina, 2021 (Patrik Hamrla, Nikita Quapp, Yegor Naumov)

Just check out that Montreal draft from 1977 – seven goalies! Of course, in many of those early years, teams could just keep making selections for as long as they wanted. Carolina threw in five blueliners five forwards to go along with the goalie trio, and made selections from around the hockey playing world, including – as this is Carolina – two picks among their first three, from Finland.

First pick – Scott Morrow, D, Shattuck St. Mary’s U18 Prep (USHS MN), 40^th overall

A pick with significant risk of flopping, but also the potential for a significant reward, if Morrow learns to play away from the puck, and his high-end skating and puck skills, with which he dominated at the prep level against weak competition. Playing against low level opponents for much of the last two years, he did not have to worry about risk taking as he was simply bigger, faster, and more skilled than everyone on the ice. In a late draft-year cameo with Fargo of the USHL, he was met with the limits to his approach for the first time. His risky plays were easily snuffed by opponents. The tools are as good as any defenseman in this draft class, outside of top six picks Power, Hughes, and Edvinsson, but he will need a complete reassessment of how to play his game in order to achieve his potential ceiling. His next steps will be made at UMass, which has an impressive recent history of developing blueliners. Carolina was perfectly positioned to take on this type of risk considering the sheer number of picks they had to play with.

Best value pick(s) –Justin Robidas, C, Val-d’Or Foreurs (QMJHL), 147^th overall

Carolina drafted quite a few players marginally later than we had them ranked, suggesting a lot of good value was accrued, but Robidas was the one and only pick among their baker’s dozen that we would wholeheartedly classify as a steal. In a draft that prioritized size, Robidas was easy to slip through the cracks, standing only 5-7” and all. Son of longtime NHL’er Stephane Robidas, young Justin is a born leader – he wore the ‘A’ in his draft year and is slated to wear the ‘C’ this coming season – skates well, is reliable in all ends, and has impressive puck skills, to boot. He plays a fearless style as well, allowing you to sometimes forget his lack of height. If the Hurricanes give him any kind of chance at all, Robidas will maximize his potential.

Worst value pick – Patrik Hamrla, G, HC Energie Karlovy Vary (Czech), 83^rd overall

If you take three goalies, it stands to reason that you have misgivings about the first one. Look at that list above, of the 35 times in NHL history that a team selected three or more goalies in a single draft class. The goalies listed after each team and year are listed in the order they were selected. How many of the 35 panned out? Michel Larocque, Bob Sauve, Tom Barrasso, Martin Brodeur, Roman Turek, Manny Fernandez, and Thomas Greiss. That is one out of five. Beyond that, you have to wonder why Hamrla didn’t get into a single game at the WU18s, as the Czech team’s top two goalies, Oliver Satny and Tomas Suchanek, both struggled mightily. If I have to pick one goalie out of the Carolina three – all of whom are 6-3”, and between 190-200 pounds, I will take sixth rounder Quapp, but that’s just a hunch. None of the three are sure things, even for goalies.

ANN ARBOR, MI - NOVEMBER 28: Michigan's Kent Johnson in action during their loss to Notre Dame, 2-1, Saturday, November 28, 2020, at Michigan's Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor, MI. (Photo by Lon Horwedel/Icon Sportswire)

Columbus Blue Jackets

1 (5) Kent Johnson, C, Michigan (NCAA/Big 10)

1 (12) Cole Sillinger, LW, Sioux Falls (USHL)

1 (25) Corson Ceulemans, D, Brooks (AJHL)

3 (69) Stanislav Svozil, D, HC Kometa Brno (Czech)

4 (101) Guillaume Richard, D, Tri-City (USHL)

5 (132) Nikolai Makorov, D, Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)

5 (133) James Malatesta, LW, Quebec (QMJHL)

6 (165) Ben Boyd, C, Charlottetown (QMJHL)

7 (197) Martin Rysavy, LW, HC Prerov (Czech 2)

After a few years of shallow draft classes, GM Jarmo Kekalainen fully embraced the rebuild this year, admitting that their second-round adventures were the best the previous core could achieve, and trading NHL assets for additional picks, and ending up as the only team with three first rounders, only the second time in team history to have had that distinction. At first blush, the Blue Jackets did a far better job selecting their three new candidates for ‘Face of the Franchise’ status than they did in 2013, when they had selected Alexander Wennberg, Kerby Rychel, and Marko Dano in the draft’s opening round.

Columbus leaned towards bigger players, with only fifth rounder James Malatesta measuring under 6-0”. Another interesting tidbit about this draft class is the presence of two Czech-based players, giving the Blue Jackets a full third of all Czech-based drafted players. Beyond that, the team actually drafted more North American than they have usually done in recent years, with only one Russian player joining the two Czechs, as opposed to the six North Americans they drafted. There are more than a few players here who should be a part of the next competitive Columbus team.

First first round pick – Kent Johnson, C, University of Michigan Wolverines (NCAA/Big 10), 5^th overall

There was not another person in this draft class with a greater puck handling game than Johnson. Some of the moves he pulled off this year, there isn’t a defender in the sport at any level who could stop him. Now, that will change as teams see more video of him, scout him more, come to expect his brand of trickery. There are a few things that Johnson needs to clean up before being ready for the NHL, and the path to retaining his style of play while adjusting to a top six NHL role might be thinner than the Blue Jackets hope, but they should still be expecting a top line caliber forward (he is a center for Michigan, but I expect him to be a winger down the line). He needs to learn to make the simple play more often, and show the ability to make the adjustment to the defense, instead of making the defense always adjust to him. If he can pull that off, he will be an All Star.

Second first round pick – Cole Sillinger, LW, Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)

One of the better finishers in the draft class, Sillinger left the WHL for the USHL last year due to the uncertainty surrounding the former league in terms being able to have a season. He made the adjustment to the new league seamlessly, winning the USHL Rookie of the Year award despite only playing roughly 60% of the season. Unlike most finishers, he has a solid two-way game, and is strong enough off the puck to be putu on the ice to defend late leads. Sillinger, son of former Blue Jacket Mike Sillinger, and born in Columbus while his father was a team member, lacks Johnson’s upside, but he might be closer to his own ceiling and more ready to play in the NHL.

Third first round pick – Corson Ceulemans, D, Brooks Bandits (AJHL)

The only team with three first round picks, Columbus went for a blueliner after nabbing the two high end forwards to kick off their draft. The Blue Jackets’ reward for sending the last month and change of Nick Foligno’s contract to Toronto, Ceulemans has a very well-balanced game, with equal parts offense and defense, just as able to kill a rush as to generate one. He has a strong NHL frame and puts it to good use, with a physical side that few offensively inclined defenders display these days. He will spend the next few years with Wisconsin, where he will have to show that he can make the adjustment from the AJHL to a significantly higher level of the sport. He has #2/3 upside.

Best value pick – Stanislav Svozil, D, HC Kometa Brno, Czech, 69^th overall

An absolute steal of a pick, Svozil had a lot of people giving him first round grades earlier in the year, but moderate performances in both the WJC and the WU18s. But even with those tournaments in consideration, he should have been selected sometime in the second round, considering his strong skating ability and hockey IQ, refined over two seasons playing against men in the Czech pro leagues. It is fair to question his offensive upside, but even there, he flashes enough hints of ability that I would not be surprised to see him one day getting regular, if not primary, power play minutes at the highest level. I wouldn’t even be surprised if Svozil ends up a more valuable NHLer than Ceulemans one day, even if it would be a mild upset.

Worst value pick – Ben Boyd, C, Charlottetown Islanders, QMJHL, 165^th overall

This is no disrespect to Boyd, a big center who puts that size to use. He was just way off the radar and never showed any substantial offensive upside. In the sixth round, taking gambles should be encouraged and this placement is not meant to chide Columbus either. Boyd is on the younger side of this draft class, and more development could very well be coming. This distinction is really just a way of noting that we quite liked Columbus’ approach to the draft this year and saw no faults in any of their other picks.

.Jack Hughes. Photo by Rena Laverty/USA Hockey

New Jersey Devils

1 (4) Luke Hughes, D, USNTDP (USHL)

1 (29) Chase Stillman, RW, Esbjerg U20 (Denmark U20)/ Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

3 (68) Samu Salminen, C, Jokerit U20 (U20 SM-sarja)

4 (100) Jakub Malek, G, VHK Vsetin (Czech 2)

5 (129) Topias Vilen, D, Pelicans (Liiga)

6 (164) Viktor Hurtig, D, Vasteras IK J20 (J20 Nationell)

7 (203) Zakhar Bardakov, C, Vityaz Podolsk (KHL)

Early as it is, I have to admit that I liked Tom Fitzgerald’s first draft more than I do this one. How much was actually by his design, I cannot say, but I can say that I had a few plausible choices for ‘worst value pick’ from this draft class. On the other hand, the Devils made the absolutely correct decision with their first pick, and I’m not even considering the PR boost they got from drafting the brother of recent #1 overall pick Jack Hughes in making that assessment. While Hughes has a touch more potential to fail to reach his ceiling that do the players selected in the top three (Power, Beniers, McTavish), it just so happens that his ceiling is higher than them all, partially due to his birth date, and partially due to his tools and how raw they are.

If there was anything truly curious about the New Jersey 2021 draft class, it is that, after Hughes, all of the other picks were based in Europe, at least this year. Even their second first rounder, Chase Stillman, ostensibly an OHL player, played most of his season in Denmark, before joining up with Team Canada for the WU18s. Their day two included two Finns, a Czech, a Swede, and a Russian. I can only presume that if they had any additional picks, they would have used them on players from Slovakia, Germany, Austria, and/or Switzerland. Incidentally, New Jersey has drafted players from each of those countries, with the exception of Germany, in recent years. Thankfully, Nico Daws, who they drafted out of the OHL last year, spent time last year in Germany, so they have covered all of the main hockey bases in Europe. Size may have been a mild theme for them, though, as every player they selected this year is at least 6-0” tall. Fitzgerald was a 6-footer, too.

First first round pick – Luke Hughes, D, USNTDP (USHL), 4^th overall

Bar none, Hughes was the best skater in the 2021 draft class. That is almost to be expected given what we know about his older brothers, Quinn and future teammate Jack. Where he starts to differ from his brothers is that Luke also has ideal NHL size for a blueliner, already standing 6-2”, and given his birthdate being less than one week before the cutoff, he has more room for additional biological growth than practically all players drafted this year. More than just a speed demon, Hughes’ other tools also all grade out as plus, and the only reason he wasn’t talked about as much as top two picks Power and Beniers was that a laceration from a skate to his leg knocked him out for the second half of the season, including the WU18s. He was healthy before the draft, though, and after a season or two at Michigan, he will be ready to start the climb towards future #1 NHL defender.

Second first round pick – Chase Stillman, RW, Esbjerg U20 (Denmark U20)/Sudbury (OHL)

Son of longtime NHLer Cory Stillman, and brother of current Blackhawk Riley Stillman, Chase lacks the upside traditionally associated with the first round, but his floor was among the highest of those available as Day One wound down. The most impressive element of his game is his physicality. Not in the sense that he is a face-puncher, but that it can be miserable to play against him. He skates well enough, and demonstrates solid decision making, allowing for him to be utilized in all manner of roles and in all situations. Had the Devils still owned their second-round pick, which would have been only seven spots later, I suspect that Stillman would have still been available, and would have been more understandable. Using that late first rounder that they received from the Islanders in the Kyle Palmieri deal on Still says more about what they thought of the other options than an indication on Stillman’s projected future role with the club.

Best value pick - Zakhar Bardakov, C, Vityaz Podolsk (KHL)

Drafted in his third year of eligibility, Bardakov broke into the KHL this year and showed a lot of same strengths and weaknesses as did Stillman. He has a big frame, skates well, and is reliable in all three zones and all situations. On the down side, Bardakov’s offensive potential isn’t much to get too excited about. Furthermore, as a 20-year-old, there is only so much more growth that we can expect out of his game. Even so, as a seventh-round pick who Russian contract expires after next season, he could provide near-immediate value to the club, if only in a bottom-line role. Also, Yegor Sharangovich had a fairly similar profile as a 20-year-old when the Devils used a fifth-round pick on him in 2018.

Worst value pick – Jakub Malek, G, VHK Vsetin (Czech 2), 100^th overall

I admit that I might have a blind spot in player evaluation, as I am generally not very high on goalies who played in lower-level European leagues and have little to no international competitive experience. And that’s where Malek falls. He is a very big guy who has never played above the Czech second division. Even that experience has been limited. Had the Devils drafted Topias Vilen in the fourth round and held off on Malek until the fifth round, I would have had a real dilemma as to who to put here. They drafted both though, so I suppose it’s really a case of ‘no harm, no foul.’.

TRINEC, CZECH REPUBLIC - DECEMBER 29: Kazakhstan vs Finland preliminary round action at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Championship at Werk Arena on December 29, 2019 in Trinec, Czech Republic. (Photo by Matt Zambonin/HHOF-IIHF Images)

New York Islanders

2 (52) Aatu Raty, C, Karpat (Liiga)

3 (93) Tristan Lennox, G, Saginaw (OHL)

4 (125) Cameron Berg, C, Muskegon (USHL)

5 (157) Eetu Liukas, LW, TPS (Liiga)

6 (189) Aleksi Malinen, D, JYP (Liiga)

7 (221) Tomas Machu, D, Draci Sumperk (Czech 2)

The Islanders recent draft history has not been especially kind. Sure, some of their first rounders have hit big (Barzal, Beauvilier), and a few others are trending in the right direction (Dobson, Wahlstrom), but even among the top end picks, there have been prominent flops (Dal Colle, Ho-Sang), and there has been an absolute lack of impact from any pick outside of the first round, with literally zero earning extended time since the 2014 draft class. Among the top candidates to break that post-first-round losing streak are a pair of Finnish prospects in Robin Salo and Otto Koivula, both listed in our top 15 for the Islanders (see upcoming McKeens annual). Another top prospect, Ruslan Iskhakov, spent last season in Finland as well.

Perhaps seeing a trend, the Islanders went heavy into Finland this year. Their first pick, taken in the second round, was as close to a no-brainer as one can get after the top few picks. More on Raty below, but him being available where he was is ridiculous. The Islanders went back to Finland for picks in the fifth and sixth rounds as well. The Islanders didn’t draft any smaller players, with all six picks standing 6-0” or taller, but one was a goalie, so that doesn’t really count, and two of the other five are exactly 6-0”, and only two of their skater picks measure in at 6-2” or greater, so I wouldn’t go so far as to say the Isles targeted size. I am not yet sure that this draft class will break that cycle of emptiness past the first round, but I am more optimistic about these picks than I have been about any recent NYI draft

First pick – Aatu Raty, C, Karpat (Liiga), 52^nd overall

There were a few players selected on day two of the draft for whom many in the preseason thought would be first round candidates, or even locks. Only Raty was in consideration as a top five pick. There were even voices that had him as the favorite for first overall before the 2020-21 season kicked off. Admittedly, Raty’s season did not go as hoped. He struggled a fair bit in the first half, to the extent that he wasn’t selected for Finland’s WJC roster, which was especially surprising as he had been a member of their WJC team in 2019, and was pretty good, to boot. So Raty’s stock had clearly dropped, but he was already turning things around in the second half. He spent the bulk of the season playing against men in Liiga, albeit in limited minutes and roles. He still has a sublime skillset with the puck and still lacks any glaring weaknesses in his projection. The Islanders getting him in the second round – late in the second no less! – is nothing short of grand larceny. And as if to emphasize that point, Raty put up 14 points in six games with Finland’s U20 team in summer tournaments.

Best value pick – Cameron Berg, C, Muskegon (USHL), 125^th overall

I might be biased, having followed Berg’s progression for two seasons now, but the value isn’t even that the Islanders drafted a player with third round talents in the fourth round. It’s that Berg should have been drafted last year, after one of the best second halves in the USHL. His second year of eligibility was another step forward for the second half of his first go-round, exceeding one point per game playing with San Jose prospect Daniil Gushchin. He showed more skill as a playmaker, without losing any of the fire of his shot. He added more grit to his game. If he can improve his skating even marginally at Nebraska-Omaha, he will have middle six NHL upside.

Worst value pick – Eetu Liukas, LW, TPS (Liiga), 157^th overall

To be honest, the Islanders didn’t have any poor value picks this year. Seventh rounder Tomas Machu wasn’t really on our radars, but he’s massive and played a big defensive role against men in the Czech second division last year, and should be a featured blueliner on the Czech WJC team this year. Liukas isn’t a bad gamble for the fifth round either. He can shoot the puck, he’s quite physical, and plays a reliable two-way game. He is simply the only other Islanders’ pick, besides Machu, which didn’t cause me to immediately say “nice pick”. It was fine. There is fourth line upside here if it all works out.

Brennan Othmann of the Flint Firebirds. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

New York Rangers

1 (16) Brennan Othmann, LW, EHC Olten (SL)/Flint (OHL)

3 (65) Jayden Grubbe, C, Red Deer (WHL)

3 (75) Ryder Korczak, C, Moose Jaw (WHL)

4 (104) Brody Lamb, LW/RW, Dodge County HS (USHS-MN)

4 (106) Kalle Vaisanen, LW, TPS U20 (U20 SM-sarja)

4 (112) Talyn Boyko, G, Tri-City (WHL)

5 (144) Jaroslav Chmelar, RW, Jokerit U18 (U18 SM-sarja)

7 (208) Hank Kempf, D, Muskegon (USHL)

After a few years of picking at the top, a result of their stated goal to rebuild, the Rangers have turned their organization back around, to a position around the middle of the pack. Seemingly as a result, instead of holding a ton of top picks, drafting for immediate upside, Chris Drury’s first draft as GM saw him focus on complementary types with the first few picks, and extremely raw players later on. It would be fair to categorize their first three picks, and the final one, in the complementary bucket, while their fourth and fifth rounders fit the mold of dart throws on long term upside. For three of the four in the second grouping, part of that supposed upside rests in their extreme physical dimensions, with Boyko, in particular fitting that bill, as the second 6-8” netminder drafted by the Rangers in the past two drafts.

A final note, that may be more coincidental than anything, on Day Two, the Rangers drafted exclusively from three geographical buckets. Canada was represented by three players out of the WHL. The US was represented by two players headed to the college route, one of whom played in high school last year and the other a USHL veteran. Finally, Europe was represented by two players drafted out of the Finnish junior leagues, one a native Finn, the other a Czech import. Both played in the year-ending WU18 tournament, along with the Rangers first rounder, an OHL’er who happened to spend the Ontario-wide hockey cancellation playing in Switzerland.

First round pick – Brennan Othmann, LW, EHC Olten, SL/Flint Firebirds (OHL), 16^th overall

Othman does a lot well, but the one area where he truly stands out is as a finisher, given a very strong shot and a willingness to follow it to the net, and pay the price to collect rebounds. He impressed during the OHL cancellation by playing in the Swiss second men’s division, where he teamed up wit the draft’s eventual third overall pick, Mason McTavish. Othmann lacks the flash of recent Rangers’ first rounders, but he brings a solid combination of upside (2^nd line) and certainty (pro-style game, solid frame, well-rounded, grit). His year end work with Gold-Medal winning Team Canada also showed that he could produce respectably playing with other high-end talents, without looking like a passenger.

Best value pick – Ryder Korczak, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL), 75^th overall

Korczak is small, and his production tis year with Moose Jaw was a step down from what he did in the full season before he was draft eligible, but there is still more than enough to like in his profile, suggestive of a player who can find a way to contribute at the NHL level. A gifted playmaker, he thinks nothing of taking physical punishment to make a play, his numbers should also improve if the level of his linemates improves. He has also worn the ‘A’ for the Warriors for two seasons already, a testament to the intangibles he brings.

Worst value pick – Brody Lamb, LW/RW, Dodge County Wildcats (USHS-MN), 104^th overall

A rambunctious winger who scored at a breathtaking clip in the Minnesota high school ranks, Lamb struggled to adjust to the higher level of play in the USHL after his prep season had ended. He can shoot the puck and gets involved physically, but his game lacks the structure that most other draft eligible have and it is hard to see him progress to the point of NHL utility. In fact, it is hard to even now how long it would take if he were to make that leap. Committed to Minnesota, he is lined up to spend two years in the USHL as an intermediate step before entering the collegiate world. Even if he does figure it out, the timeline is so long that the implied value in the selection can only diminish. As a seventh-round pick, he would have made a lot more sense.

Samu Tuomaala.

Philadelphia Flyers

2 (46) Samu Tuomaala, RW, Karpat U20 (U20 SM-sarja)

3 (78) Alexei Kolosov, G, Dinamo-Molodechno (Belarus)

4 (110) Brian Zanetti, D, Lugano U20 (U20 Elit)

5 (158) Ty Murchison, D, USNTDP (USHL)

6 (174) Ethan Samson, D, Prince George (WHL)

7 (206) Owen McLaughlin, C, Mount St. Charles Academy 18U AAA (USHS-RI)

From 2014 until 2018, under the stewardship of former General Manager Ron Hextall, the Flyers drafted seven goaltenders across five years. It only took two drafts under current GM Chuck Fletcher for the Flyers to add another netminder to their pool. A good one, too. Third round pick Alexei Kolosov was the third goalie drafted this year, and the first after the first round. We had him ranked fourth among his fellow crease guardians, but either way the young Belarussian is now the team’s top puck stopping prospect.

Beyond that little tidbit, there isn’t much to note trend-wise, besides perhaps the organization’s stronger lean towards European talent than any year since 2018, where they selected three out of Sweden. First pick (second round) Samu Tuomaala was actually the first Finn drafted by Philadelphia since (scroll, scroll, scroll) Joonas Lehtivuori, a fourth rounder from 2006. Kosolev was actually the first player drafted out of Belarus in franchise history, as the other Belarussian they selected (Maxim Sushko, 4^th round, 2017) was playing in the OHL at the time. As for Switzerland, homeland of fourth rounder Brian Zanetti, he was the third Swiss national drafted by the Flyers, and the second who was actually playing in his homeland at the time, after 2003 fourth rounder Kevin Romy. Neat factoids, if not that meaningful.

First pick – Samu Tuomaala, RW, Karpat U20 (U20 SM-sarja), 46^th overall

A top performer for Finland’s WU18 team – and one of the best in the entire tournament on any team - Tuomaala is small, but can fly, and has a well-rounded set of tools for the offensive zone, and a promising sense of responsibility off the puck. He even plays with a healthy dose of grit. In fact, if teams weren’t so inexplicably drawn to size this year, he could easily have been a good fit in the late first round. The Flyers have already signed him to an Entry Level Contract, although they have loaned him back to Karpat to continue his development at home for another season. Expect Tuomaala to battle for a spot on Finland’s WJC roster as well. This is their best – although not only – value pick.

Best value pick – Alexei Kolosov, G, Dinamo-Molodechno (Belarus), 115^th overall

On the smaller side for a modern netminder, Kolosov is nevertheless a very promising young ‘tender. He split his regular season between the Belarussian league and Belarus’ KHL squad and put up numbers that surpassed his crease-mates with both clubs. He was also Belarus’ starter during the World Championships and is expected to play for his homeland in the upcoming Winter Olympics. The question is whether he will leave his club team for the Olympics, or if he will join Erie of the OHL, where he would have played last year if the OHL had had a season. His best trait is his ability to read the flow of the game, while he has no obvious real weak spots.

Worst value pick – Ty Murchison, D, USNTDP (USHL), 158^th overall

With all due respect to Murchison, who has had his good moments for the USNTDP, and has decent size, there were eight draft eligible defensemen on the USNTDP last year, and I would have drafted seven of them before calling on the Arizona State commit. Not only that, three of the ones I would have preferred (Ty Gallagher, who was eventually drafted, and Jacob Martin and Ethan Straky, who were not) were still available at the time. It isn’t that Murchison is bad, but there is just mothering about his game that sticks out as an NHL-level tool.

Pittsburgh Penguins

2 (58) Tristan Broz, LW/C, Fargo (USHL)

5 (154) Isaac Beliveau, D, Rimouski (QMJHL)

7 (194) Ryan McCleary, D, Calgary (WHL)

7 (215) Daniel Laatsch, D, Sioux City (USHL)

7 (218) Kirill Tankov, C, SKA-Varyagi im. Morozova (MHL)

With only five more players added to the system, once again, the Penguins went (relatively) without at the draft. It has now been nine draft classes in a row in which Pittsburgh has made fewer than the allotted seven picks. Next year is already slated to make a ten-draft run with missing picks, as the Penguins’ third rounder has already been dealt to Los Angeles. Furthermore, they are still stuck on only two first rounders in that nine-year stretch.

On the one hand, missing picks isn’t that big a deal when you are winning, and the Penguins have done an awful lot of that over the years, with two Stanley Cups. On the other hand, the team hasn’t escaped the first round (which meant a loss in the playoff qualifiers in 2020) in three years, and the NHL roster core isn’t getting any younger. At some point – a point that they may have already passed – the Penguins will need to bring fresh faces into the lineup, and the best place to find fresh faces has traditionally been from within. Teddy Blugers was the last prospect to rise from within to secure a regular NHL job, and the prospects they keep adding with the picks they do keep are in his vein; well-rounded, lunch bucket, bottom half of the lineup types. Someday soon, Crosby and Malkin won’t be able to carry the torch anymore and the Penguins won’t have anyone ready to step up in their place. Not that anyone can really take over from those two, but there won’t even be any legitimate top six options left.

First pick – Tristan Broz, LW/C, Fargo Force (USHL), 58^th overall

Not that Broz is going to be the guy to jump into a top six spot in the next few years, but he could be a really good third line option. He looks like an NHL forward with his frame and smooth, clean skating stride. His puck skills are OK, but he reads the zone very well and is a talented playmaker, who will take a hit to make the play. He doesn’t get shy when the games get tighter, and was the primary reason behind Fargo’s reaching the Clark Cup finals last year. I expect him to play three years at Minnesota, but Broz might not need any additional AHL seasoning after that. A strong pick for the end of the second round. Good thing, too, as Pittsburgh had to wait for nearly 100 more players to be taken off the board before they could make another selection.

Best value pick – Daniel Laatsch, D, Sioux City Musketeers (USHL), 215^th overall

Laatsch is no sure thing, but for a late seventh round pick, one of the final ten players selected (although not Pittsburgh’s last selection), he is a very fun, intriguing gamble. A unique player, he is very tall, but also very thin. His offensive game will occasionally flash an awkward utility, as he drives the puck deep into the offensive zone, but his core skills are better suited for simplicity. Despite his reed-thin frame, he has fearless physicality. The USNTDP grad, who needed a year away from the program to be draft-worthy, Laatsch is headed to Wisconsin, which has done a solid job developing blueliners in recent years. I don’t know that he fits into a traditional NHL role, but he could have real value within a few years.

Worst value pick – Ryan McCleary, D, Portland Winterhawks (WHL), 194^th overall

As I have mentioned a few times in this series, there is almost no such thing as bad value in the seventh round. They are all gambles by that point, with minimal honest expectations of ever playing in the NHL. But when a team only makes five picks, and three of those are in the seventh round, I have to pick someone. So why McCleary? Two reasons. First, when you only have five picks, it is imperative that you swing for the fences. McCleary is physically underdeveloped and has never demonstrated a big upside, even in U18 hockey in Saskatchewan. The best we can say about McCleary is that he will take the hit to make the play, and that he was born in September, 2003, making him one of the youngest players drafted this year. Second, the other four guys Pittsburgh drafted have more elements going for them. We will know more once he plays a full season in the WHL.

Vincent Iorio. Courtesy of the WHL.

Washington Capitals

2 (55) Vincent Iorio, D, Brandon (WHL)

3 (80) Brent Johnson, D, Sioux Falls (USHL)

4 (119) Joaquim Lemay, D, Salmon Arm (BCHL)

5 (151) Haakon Hanelt, LW/RW, Eisbaren Berlin (DEL)

6 (176) Dru Krebs, D, Medicine Hat (WHL)

6 (183) Chase Clark, G, Jersey Hitmen (NCDA)

With only six picks – missing the all-important first rounder, but not quite making up for it by having an extra sixth rounder instead of picking in the seventh, Washington went heavy on the blueline this year, using four of the six picks on a rearguard, five picks, if you include the goalie. While the positional lean may have been a fluke of circumstance, how the Washington draft board shook out in this pandemic season, what is absolutely not a fluke, but a systemic lean that goes back years, is the team’s preference for drafting players out of Western Canada. Two of five in 2020. Two of four in 2019. Four of seven in 2018. None in 2017, but three of seven in 2016. I could go on. Of their six picks this year, three were out of the WHL and one more came from the BCHL. At least we can say that Washington didn’t follow the herd this year, fetishizing size and brawn. Their first pick is big, as is the goalie selection (Clark is actually huge). But the others are average sized, or smaller.

First pick – Vincent Iorio, D, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL), 55^th overall

The one big skater drafted by the Capitals this year, Iorio is a very good skater for his size, and has a strong defensive zone game, but has never shown much propensity for offensive zone impact. On a rate basis, his 12 points in 22 games last year with the Wheat Kings was far and away his best junior hockey showing. His best anywhere since playing at the 14U level for Shattuck St. Mary’s back in 2016-17. His feet, length, and ability to make clean, yet hard defensive stops allow for a safe projection of a number four with some PK utility as a ceiling.

Best value pick – Brent Johnson, D, Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL), 80^th overall

Small, but occasionally very feisty, Johnson had a very strong debut season in the USHL, his first of high-level hockey. A strong puck rusher with a knack for sticking his nose everywhere, his play was often unrefined, but his risks paid off far more often than they backfired. As his game matures, he will need to learn when to take a chance and when to play conservatively, both in terms of offensive risks as well as in his physical play, to avoid injuries like the shoulder ailment that ended his season early. The North Dakota commit is a fun player to watch and easy to root for, especially if you like to see growth of the game. Johnson is a native Texan.

Worst value pick – Joaquim Lemay, D, Salmon Arm Silverbacks (BCHL), 119^th overall

In his second year of eligibility, the nomadic Lemay, a Quebec native, made his debut in the BCHL, after a year spent playing prep hockey in Rhode Island. He was OK. His ability to play and move the puck is his only real positive, while on the downside, he can play a bit shy, and his skating is average at best. Committed to Nebraska-Omaha, he may need another year in the BCHL or the USHL (Lincoln owns his rights and has protected him ahead of training camp), before going to campus. Were he taken with a later round pick; it would be a fine gamble. In the fourth round, for an organization that rarely takes all seven of its picks, it seems to be a needless risk with a marginal upside.

2021 NHL DRAFT: NEW JERSEY DEVILS REVIEW

Ryan Wagman — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 18:47:33 +0000

.Jack Hughes. Photo by Rena Laverty/USA Hockey

New Jersey Devils

1 (4) Luke Hughes, D, USNTDP (USHL)

1 (29) Chase Stillman, RW, Esbjerg U20 (Denmark U20)/ Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

3 (68) Samu Salminen, C, Jokerit U20 (U20 SM-sarja)

4 (100) Jakub Malek, G, VHK Vsetin (Czech 2)

5 (129) Topias Vilen, D, Pelicans (Liiga)

6 (164) Viktor Hurtig, D, Vasteras IK J20 (J20 Nationell)

7 (203) Zakhar Bardakov, C, Vityaz Podolsk (KHL)

First first round pick – Luke Hughes, D, USNTDP (USHL), 4^th overall

Second first round pick – Chase Stillman, RW, Esbjerg U20 (Denmark U20)/Sudbury (OHL)

Best value pick - Zakhar Bardakov, C, Vityaz Podolsk (KHL)

Worst value pick – Jakub Malek, G, VHK Vsetin (Czech 2), 100^th overall