The New Jersey Devils are steadily building a promising future, and their prospect pool is a key component of their long-term success. While the team has a young core already making an impact in the NHL, a new wave of talent is on the horizon, poised to contribute as early as the 2025-26 season. Here's a look at the Devils' top 10 prospects who could be making waves in the NHL in the coming years:
Anton Silayev (LHD): Drafted 10th overall in 2024, Silayev is a towering defenseman with impressive mobility for his size. He excels defensively, blocking shots and delivering hits, while also demonstrating great skating ability. With a contract in the KHL through the 2025-26 season, Devils fans are eagerly awaiting his arrival.
Seamus Casey (RHD): Casey, a 2022 second-round pick, is a dynamic, undersized defenseman with a knack for offense. He led Michigan defensemen in points and earned All-Big Ten First Team honors. Casey's blend of offensive skill and surprising physicality makes him a potential top-four defenseman in the NHL. He is expected to quarterback the power play in Utica.
Lenni Hämeenaho (RW): Hämeenaho has consistently improved his game each year in Liiga. Tom Fitzgerald has identified Hämeenaho as a prospect with the potential to compete for NHL ice time. With his scoring touch and all-around game, he could become a valuable middle-six contributor.
Arseni Gritsyuk (RW): A 2019 draft pick, Gritsyuk has developed into a skilled and talented winger. After a strong 2023-24 campaign in the KHL, Gritsyuk is on a one-year entry-level contract and could make an immediate impact on the Devils' third line with his shot.
Mikhail Yegorov (G): Selected in the second round of the 2024 draft, Yegorov is an intriguing goaltending prospect with a bright future. He brings his talents to Boston University and is considered a long-term prospect.
Shane LaChance (LW): Acquired from the Edmonton Oilers, LaChance is a big-bodied winger with a strong defensive game. He is defensively sound, and is known for his positioning in his own zone. LaChance served as Boston University's captain and helped them reach the Frozen Four final.
Topias Vilén (LHD): A fifth-round pick, Vilén is developing into a reliable, low-key defensive option. He posted a solid rookie campaign in the AHL and could provide depth on the blue line.
Brian Halonen (F): Halonen has consistently found the back of the net for the Utica Comets. With Nathan Bastian out of the picture, Halonen is more likely to make the jump in 2025-26.
Conrad Fondrk (C): A Boston University commit, Fondrk is a developing center prospect.
Ben Kevan (RW): Kevan is another NCAA prospect, playing at Arizona State University.
While the Devils' prospect pool may not be the deepest in the league, it boasts potential impact players at every position. With a blend of skilled defensemen, promising forwards, and a goaltender of the future, the Devils are well-positioned to sustain their success for years to come. As these prospects continue to develop, they will provide valuable depth and competition for roster spots, pushing the entire team to new heights.
