Xavier Parent
We’ve been talking up Xavier Parent this offseason, and he’s had an interesting journey to this point. This is a player who once went from 27 points to 105 points in the QMJHL. He has been able to make amazing adjustments in his game. He did that since turning pro, going from the ECHL full-time to putting up 45 points in the AHL.
If he continues growth and becomes a better player in the AHL this season, the Devils would have to have a conversation about Parent. He wasn’t expected to be a big contributor this season, but the Devils showed with Casey that they are willing to pivot when the situation calls for change.
Parent is a player who will take some time to be good in the NHL, but the Devils might be able to be patient with him. Yes, this is a franchise that’s trying to win, but making Parent an extra would really make a beautiful impact on his career.
His preseason numbers weren’t good, but that is what it is. This was a weird preseason with the Devils going to Prague. He was stuck on some strange lines, and the Devils were learning a new system. Parent will be fine in Utica this season, and we expect to see him for at least a call up in the NHL.