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5 New Jersey Devils Who Could Make NHL Debut This Season

By Nick Villano

Simon Nemec #5 of the New Jersey Devils against the New York Rangers on September 30, 2022 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images)
Simon Nemec #5 of the New Jersey Devils against the New York Rangers on September 30, 2022 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images) /
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New Jersey Devils
Brian Halonen of the New Jersey Devils. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Brian Halonen

This entry was split between Brian Halonen and Jack Dugan. These are two incredible college hockey players who are looking to make a name with the Utica Comets. We leaned towards Halonen because Dugan needs a little more proof of concept in the Devils organization before they think about a call-up. His development path might make the most sense to spend an entire year under Dineen.

Halonen, on the other hand, was signed by the Devils last season after he exploded in his senior year with Michigan Tech. He recorded 44 points and earned votes for the Hobey Baker Award for the best player in the NCAA. Halonen finished the season sixth in goals and eighth in points. He joined the Comets, and only had three points in 12 games. Most college players struggle to make an impact immediately after signing. Halonen will be much better with a full camp in the organization.

Halonen will have to prove himself worthy to get a call-up ahead of players like Nolan Foote and Clarke. Halonen seems like a player who will eventually get a look based on curiosity alone. The Devils signed him as a college free agent. He was basically a free addition to the prospect pool.

He’s already 23 years old, so he gets a chance ahead of some other players. He’s also 6’0 and well over 200 lbs. The Devils look at him, and he has an NHL body. For that reason, if he succeeds on the AHL level, he’ll get a shot to play in the NHL.

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