Alexander Holtz is heating up

The former seventh overall pick is playing like he belongs – and he does.

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By Neil Villapiano (@TheNVPShow)

Before this season, Alexander Holtz's future in New Jersey was somewhat in question. He had struggled in his short time in the NHL last year and at one point was benched for more than a month.

The New Jersey Devils' brass even said that the 2023-24 campaign was a prove-it year for the young forward. Many wondered if he was heading towards being a bust of a pick. Fast forward to today and Holtz has not only survived but thrived in his second season.

In 38 games, Holtz has already set career high in games, goals (9), assists (10) and points (19). The Swedish winger also has tallied a goal and four points in the last three games.

He looks more confident and is succeeding in areas other than just scoring. He's winning puck battles and being more responsible in his end. Dawson Mercer's second goal vs Washington last week only happens if Holtz keeps the puck in near the boards.

When it comes to his offense, Holtz has certainly elevated his game. It's not just the stats that are noticeable, but the underlying numbers tell a story as well.

Per NaturalStatTrick, Holtz’s GF% was 33.33 and his xGF% was at 46.73 in 2022-23. Through 38 games, he has increased his GF% a ton to 53.66 and xGF% to 48.72. He is becoming an aggressive and confident player who believes in his abilities a lot more.

Holtz is currently succeeding in playing on a line with Michael McLeod and Curtis Lazar. You can even say that McLeod's and Lazar's game has elevated in playing alongside Holtz. That line has been Lindy Ruff's go-to for energy and, at times, scoring as well. Ruff should ride this trio as much as possible and look to involve Holtz more in the power play as well.

Holtz knew that this season was a make-or-break year for him. So far, he has certainly made it in more ways than one. He's finally showing the league what made him such a coveted player in his draft class and why he's incredibly skilled.

From the looks of it, he's only going to get better. The best has yet to come for Alexander Holtz.