Lenni Hämeenaho, a 20-year-old right winger drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the second round (58th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft, is poised to make his North American professional debut with the AHL's Utica Comets in the 2025-2026 season. Here's a comprehensive guide for Devils fans eager to follow his progress.

What to Expect from Hämeenaho

Hämeenaho is a versatile and reliable winger known for his well-rounded game. He doesn't necessarily possess one standout skill, but he contributes effectively in all zones. Scouts describe him as a player who makes the "small details look effortless".

• Offensive Abilities: Hämeenaho has decent shooting ability and the skill to generate controlled entries into the offensive zone. He is not afraid to go to the net and has good hands, allowing him to score from range and find second chances around the crease.
• Defensive Prowess: Hämeenaho is lauded for his defensive awareness and willingness to sacrifice his body. He is active in his own zone, working to eliminate shooting and passing lanes and effectively taking away time and space from opponents.
• Skating: Hämeenaho is a good skater with excellent edges and explosiveness in all directions. While he may not have game-breaking top-end speed, his agility allows him to be constantly available as an outlet option and to effectively scan the ice.
• Hockey Sense: Hämeenaho possesses a high hockey IQ and makes smart decisions with the puck. He excels at reading plays quickly and using short, smart passes to create space for himself and his teammates.
• Physicality and Work Ethic: Despite not being the biggest player (6'1", 185 lbs), Hämeenaho is strong on the puck and wins battles along the boards and in front of the net. He also demonstrates a strong work ethic on the forecheck.

Potential Upside

While Hämeenaho may not be a flashy player, his reliability and well-rounded skillset give him a high floor as a potential bottom-six forward in the NHL. Some scouts believe that if he can add more speed to his game and become a more consistent offensive threat, he could develop into a valuable complementary grinder on a middle-six line.

Utica Comets: Hämeenaho's Development Ground

The New Jersey Devils signed Hämeenaho to a three-year, entry-level contract that begins in the 2025-26 season. While there's a possibility he could impress enough in training camp to earn a spot with the Devils, it's anticipated that he'll start the season with the Utica Comets. The Comets, the AHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, will provide Hämeenaho with the opportunity to acclimate to the North American game and refine his skills.

Games to Watch

The Utica Comets' 2025-26 season kicks off with an opening weekend series against the Cleveland Monsters on October 10th and 11th. Other key dates for Comets fans include:

• October 25th vs Laval: Frights and Flights
• November 11th vs Syracuse: Veterans Day
• November 26th vs Syracuse: Thanksgiving Eve
• January 25th vs Syracuse: Kids Takeover
• February 7th vs Rochester: Star Wars Night
• February 14th vs Valentine's Day

Fans can catch all the Comets' action live and on demand through FloHockey.

With a promotional schedule packed with exciting events and a roster boasting promising prospects like Hämeenaho, the Utica Comets offer an exciting viewing experience for Devils fans. Keep a close eye on Hämeenaho's development as he embarks on his North American hockey journey.