This sounds like putting a lot on the kid, right? The headline reads “Alex Holtz called up to be New Jersey Devils savior“. Savior? That much pressure on a Thursday? It sounds like too much, but the expectation is this should be the move that changes the outcome of games. Honestly, look at this move on the surface.
The entire development plan for Holtz was to let him cook in the AHL, and cook is exactly what he was doing. Holtz had five goals in four games as he was the main driver in the Utica Comets’ 4-0-0 record this season. Holtz was definitely the most talented player on the ice. The worries from his less than ideal 2020-21 season are out the door almost immediately.
It’s not like Holtz only looked good in the preseason. He had four points in three games against mostly NHL competition, and he was also a driver in the Devils winning before the games counted. Holtz was always the right answer for the Devils.
The Devils need him now more than ever. Jack Hughes is out at least another month, and the team needs skill to replace what he brings to the lineup. Holtz obviously doesn’t play center, so it’s not a one-for-one comparison, but the Devils need players who can make things happen at any position.
Holtz has a ton of skill and talent, specifically when it comes to his NHL-level shot. His one timer is a massive weapon. Devils players should be salivating to utilize him. Dawson Mercer and Nico Hischier should be fighting to get him on their line at 5v5. He will be able to send shots home at a better clip than just about anyone on the team. He doesn’t make many bad decisions with his shot, and very few times does he actually take a low-danger chance to the net. He usually parks himself in a high-danger area, which is why his incredible shot ends up in the back of the net more often than not.
Holtz was recalled to help the power play. That much is obvious. Head coach Lindy Ruff even said as much after Thursday’s practice.
"“We want to see if Alex can bring an element to our power play, which I think we need which is a right-handed shot that can always be dangerous. Other teams have to respect that. If other teams respect that I think other things will open up.”"
This shows Ruff plans to put Holtz in a position to succeed right from the get go. Holtz isn’t here to replace the injured Miles Wood. He’s here to replace the production of Jack Hughes. They play the game completely differently, but Holtz can lead to just as many goals while he’s on the ice.
What is the worst that can happen? If it doesn’t work out, he goes back to dominating the AHL. The Devils obviously told him he’s a young player and to take it day by day. Hopefully, we never see Holtz in the minors again. That would mean the team found a spot for him in New Jersey for the next decade.