New Jersey Devils: 5 Potential Jonas Siegenthaler Replacements

#4. Santeri Hatakka, Utica Comets

Pivoting to another Comets player, former San Jose Sharks defenseman Santeri Hatakka was a preseason standout for the Devils. Unfortunately, Hatakka fell victim to the numbers game and has instead plied his trade with Utica.

What separates Hatakka from Misyul is that Hatakka already has nine games of NHL experience from a brief cameo with the Sharks during the 2021-22 season. In those nine games, the 22-year-old posted two assists and a minus-5 plus-minus rating. Hatakka isn't overly physical at 6-foot, 174 pounds, but he's a steady defender with experience in the NHL and Liiga, Finland's top division.

At the moment, it wouldn't be a surprise if Hatakka has the inside track over Misyul in terms of potential call-ups. The NHL experience alone should make him a more favorable option over his Russian counterpart, even if Misyul might have a higher upside. Both players deserve the opportunity, so this will depend on what the organization sees from Hatakka and Misyul on the ice right now.