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New Jersey Devils: 5 Prospects Who Could Surprisingly Jump Into NHL Next Season

By Nick Villano

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 09: Yegor Sharangovich #17 of the New Jersey Devils celebrates a goal against the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena on March 9, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 09: Yegor Sharangovich #17 of the New Jersey Devils celebrates a goal against the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena on March 9, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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New Jersey Devils
New Jersey Devils – Graeme Clarke (Photo by Kevin Light/Getty Images) /

Graeme Clarke

This one might seem a little less crazy than others on the list, but Graeme Clarke doesn’t necessarily have a path to make the NHL next season. He’s only going to be 20 years old, so he’d be one of the youngest players in the league. If his production in the AHL is any prediction, then he’s someone the Devils will sorely need.

Despite being a terrible team overall, Clarke is one of the few bright spots in the Prudential Center practice facility. While five goals in 19 games aren’t exactly superstar-worthy, he’s one goal away from the team lead. He’s able to find open space, and he’s an insane threat on the power play. The Devils power play desperately needs scorers. Clarke is a scorer beyond a shadow of the doubt.

Clarke isn’t a one-trick pony. The former 3rd-round pick can play defense and makes his own offensive opportunities with his puck handling. That makes him a really good fit for the Lindy Ruff system. He’ll do everything he’s asked and more.

Clarke’s biggest issue is staying healthy. That might be the main reason the Devils keep him in the AHL. It still hits like a pro league, but the hits don’t hurt as it does in the NHL. They aren’t as big, they don’t skate as fast, and Clarke’s shoulders will get a chance to heal even more. He’s been able to stay healthy this season so far, and it looks like if he can just last a little longer, those shoulder woes will be officially behind him. However, if it’s a decision of talent and fit, Clarke has a chance to make the NHL roster next season.

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