Last Ranked: 10
Nico Daws’ numbers are worse than Akira Schmid on paper, but his pedigree and ability has us ranking him just ahead of his partner in Utica. Daws is a former third-round pick that once led the OHL in save percentage. He’s another player who saw his development stalled due to the pandemic, and he had to take a backup role in Germany. This season, he took over the starting role in Utica. He’s someone to pay attention to if you don’t believe Mackenzie Blackwood is the answer in net.
Last Ranked: 5
Graeme Clarke is one of the few players in Utica that’s not getting the rub from this magical season. Some thought his shot alone would get him into an NHL lineup. He just hasn’t really scored this year. He has just five goals in 20 games for Utica. Despite having one of the best teams in the AHL, Clarke hasn’t had the same quality of season. He’s only 20 years old, and there’s a lot more development coming for him. It’s still pretty easy to say we’re not happy with how this season has turned out for him.
Last Ranked: 7
Tyce Thompson has basically been hurt this entire season, which is incredibly upsetting because the Devils clearly had high hopes for him. He might have carved out a full-time role in the NHL by now. Even if he didn’t get a chance to be in the Devils lineup, he was going to be a lock for the top six in Utica. Instead, he was forced to get shoulder surgery. Still, this kid has insane upside. He could be a good NHL player next season. Let’s just hope his rehab is going well.
Last Ranked: 4
Kevin Bahl is a defenseman that will likely move all over the rankings until he makes the NHL full time. His size will always be what stands out. As they like to say, you can’t teach size. He can clearly move despite being 6’6. He can also knock a guy out when he’s challenged. Bahl is hardly empty size like some other young defensemen. However, there are multiple flaws in his game he still needs to work on. He does a lot right, and he’s grown as a player this season. It’s just hard to tell what the final product will be for Bahl. It might be worth it to give him an extended NHL look before the Comets take the ice for the Calder Cup playoffs.
Last Ranked: 3
Nolan Foote has been turning it on as of late, which is great to see. He was really struggling at times in the first half of the season. There were some worries he could be struggling to make the transition to professional hockey. His incredible shot is still his biggest asset, but if he can’t get to a spot to use it, it doesn’t matter. Between December 4th and January 25th, Foote had 13 points in 11 games. He only has seven points in the other 21 games. He has to stop going on these long scoreless streaks to show he can be a consistent NHL player. He will likely spend another year in the AHL next year before he’s considered a possible member of the Devils.