On Thursday night, the 2024 Devils preseason officially concluded with the remaining New Jersey Devils falling 5-4 to the Philadelphia Flyers. It was yet another spirited effort from a majority AHL Devils lineup, with one player standing out above the rest: Kevin Labanc.
A little over two weeks ago, it was announced that Labanc was set to join the Devils in training camp on a professional tryout (PTO). Barring an unproductive few weeks, it was expected that Labanc would arrive and have a legitimate opportunity to compete for an opening night roster spot in Prague. Fast forward to the present, and Labanc remains in New Jersey with the minor leaguers while the rest of the 2024-2025 Devils team awaits the opening puck drop to their new season.
Credit to number 62. As a professional, Labanc did not let the present circumstances dictate his approach. Since the Devils left for Prague, Labanc has had six goals on 16 shots and seven points in three preseason games. Granted, these performances have come against most fringe roster players and minor leaguers. However, be that as it may, Labanc has exhibited his offensive abilities, including that wicked shot.
The Devils are in good shape offensively where they are at the moment. The new season is about to begin, and the roster is set for the first two games. But, once the plane touches down back in Newark, the roster becomes less certain and Labanc’s name should be part of that uncertainty. At this point, there is nothing reprehensible about New Jersey signing him for the season. His play this past week would justify it. Contrary to Aesop, too much of a good thing wouldn’t be too much for this Devils team. Labanc would be a welcome addition to this offense and extremely helpful going forward. For a Devils team desperate to return to contention, too much of a good thing wouldn't be too much at all.