New Jersey Devils: 5 Players Who Could Surprisingly Make Roster

Tyce Thompson

Many believe it’s a foregone conclusion that Nolan Foote is making the roster. There’s a spot open on the fourth line with Miles Wood in Colorado, he’s no longer exempt from waivers, and the front office loves him. They’ve spoken very highly of him in multiple press conferences. However, one prospect the Devils once had high hopes for is Tyce Thompson.

Thompson was added to the NHL roster right out of college. He didn’t last long, and things have gone terrible in the pros. Thompson has 11 games under his belt in the NHL, including two games last season. He has one point. That’s very bad.

This is Thompson’s last chance. The Devils will put him on waivers if he doesn’t prove that he can make the roster. Another team will likely claim him because of his age (somehow, he’s already 24 years old), and the fact that he’s Tage Thompson’s brother. Heck, Buffalo might claim him.

Thompson’s main issues have been injuries. He missed most of 2021-22 and a few weeks last season. It’s really hampered his production. If he finally goes into this season fully healthy and shows he can impact the offense, he could fight Foote for that spot on the fourth line.