Arseniy Gritsyuk is set to compete for a spot on the New Jersey Devils roster for the upcoming NHL season, following a successful stint in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The 24-year-old forward signed a one-year, entry-level contract with the Devils in May 2025, marking the beginning of his North American hockey journey.

Gritsyuk's arrival in New Jersey has been long-awaited, as the Devils drafted him in the fifth round (129th overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft. After patiently developing his game in the KHL, he feels ready to make an immediate impact in the NHL. "At 24, I'm no longer a kid," Gritsyuk told RG. "It's the perfect time to go as a team leader and try to become a full-fledged NHL player".

In preparation for his NHL debut, Gritsyuk has been seeking advice from former Devils players Yegor Yakovlev and Nikita Gusev, both of whom currently play in the KHL. They encouraged him to seize this opportunity to prove himself. Gritsyuk is also planning to arrive in New Jersey a month before training camp to learn English and adjust to life in North America.

During the 2024-25 KHL season with St. Petersburg, Gritsyuk recorded 44 points (17 goals, 27 assists) in 49 regular-season games. He ranked among the top five on his team in points, goals, and assists. He also contributed five points (1 goal, 4 assists) in six playoff games, tying for the team lead. His KHL career totals include 68 goals and 84 assists in 216 regular-season games.

Gritsyuk's strengths include his skating ability and knack for creating separation from defenders. While he has not yet surpassed 20 goals in a KHL season, his point-per-game average has steadily increased over the past three seasons.

While expectations should be tempered, Gritsyuk projects as a serviceable middle-six forward with the potential to score 15-20 goals and 35-40 points in his rookie season. He could potentially fill the void left by veteran Tomas Tatar.

Gritsyuk is eager to test himself in the NHL and understand what separates successful players from those who don't find their footing. He is determined to dedicate himself fully to his NHL career and is not considering a return to the KHL.

Devils General Manager Tom Fitzgerald signed Gritsyuk to bolster the team's offense, and Gritsyuk hopes to impress the organization and earn a prominent role. With changes expected within the Devils roster, opportunities may arise for Gritsyuk to seize.