Jesper Bratt
Jesper Bratt is the same player than came into a preseason from Sweden as a spry 19 year old who worked his way into an NHL roster spot. Literally, this kid surpassed players older and with better prospects coming into the season. Now, Bratt is easily a lock to make the Devils this season. It was heartbreaking that he wasn’t in the opening night lineup last season, since this was one of the only chances Bratt had to play an NHL game in his native Sweden.
This year, Bratt could honestly play anywhere in the lineup. There’s a good chance he could end up playing on the first line next to Hall and Hischier. That line played really well at times when the Devils last made the playoffs. He could play right wing on the second line next to Hughes and Gusev. He could flank Travis Zajac on either wing, as he’s getting better every year at his two-way game. Heck, if things don’t go well, Miles Wood could get passed him, pushing Bratt to the fourth line.
We don’t expect Bratt to fall out of the top six, but if Simmonds proves that injuries are to blame for his struggles, wouldn’t Bratt be the natural fit to move down?
But Bratt could do the opposite and play out of his mind, making him a fixture to play next to a former MVP. Bratt has routinely played great in September. He comes into training camp with a certain fire every single season. The first year, it was the small shot to make the NHL. His second year, he wanted to make up for falling off at the end of his rookie year. This year, he wants to prove himself with so much new talent on the roster and for his contract year.