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New Jersey Devils’ top 3 prospects to watch out for in 2024-25 season
The New Jersey Devils have emerged from their rebuild with a deep prospect pool. Several of those prospects have graduated to the big club. Names like Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier have given New Jersey Devils fans plenty to cheer for.
However, the prospect pipeline doesn’t end there. The New Jersey Devils have one of the best prospect pipelines in the NHL. So, it’s worth taking a look at the top three prospects in the Devils’ organization for this upcoming season.
New Jersey Devils’ top three prospects to watch out for in 2024-25
#3 Anton Silayev
The 18-year-old Russian blueliner was the New Jersey Devils’ first-round pick in the past draft. Already, he’s the best defenseman in New Jersey’s system. At six-foot-seven and over 200 pounds, Silayev conjures thoughts of Zdeno Chara.
Overall, Silayev should project as a top-pairing defenseman with size, physicality and talent. Opposing players will have a tough time getting by Silayev, especially if he can improve his skating skills.
Silayev will play in the KHL next season. Depending on circumstances, he could transition to North America in time for the 2025-26 season.
#2 Lenni Hameenaho
Hameenaho is the Devils’ second-round pick in 2023 NHL Draft. At 19, he’s making a name for himself in the Finnish Liiga. He racked up 31 points in 26 games last season, playing a key role with his club, Assat.
Hameenaho projects as a solid two-way winger, with smarts and speed. His size and strength should be a good complement to the talented centers in the Devils’ lineup.
Devils fans shouldn’t expect to see Hamneenaho this season in New Jersey. He will be playing one more year in the Liiga. However, there’s a good chance that he will make the transition to North America as soon as the 2025-26 season.
#1 Seamus Casey
Casey projects as a top-four defenseman in the NHL. While relatively undersized at five-foot-10, he packs a mean streak. That sort of physicality comes in handy when playing in a shutdown role.
The 20-year-old was New Jersey’s second-round pick in 2022. He’s expected to start the season in the AHL after finishing his time in the NCAA. Casey should get an opportunity to show what he can do at training camp this fall.
Most importantly, Devils fans should keep an eye on Casey, as he could be a call-up if injuries or inconsistency plague the team. If the Devils find themselves out of the playoff picture, like they did last season, Casey should get a shot at some point in the season.
If the Devils find themselves in a playoff spot, Casey may stay a bit longer in the AHL, rounding out his overall game.
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