New Jersey Devils notes: On Gritsyuk, a strong shutdown line, and more

Arseniy Gritsyuk passed every test in preseason play. Plus, thoughts on a potentially strong shutdown line and the need to shelter P3.

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A few notes as we await opening night for the New Jersey Devils:

Wheels up for Arseniy Gritsyuk ✈️

Gritsyuk entered camp as somewhat of an unknown. Everyone was understandably high on him given his strong track record of production overseas but how much – and how fast – he’d be able to contribute at the NHL level was a big question mark.

Sheldon Keefe clearly made it a priority to get as much intel on Gritsyuk as possible, and expedite his adjustment process during preseason play.

Nobody suited up more times for the Devils during their seven-game schedule and the results were as encouraging as possible.

Gritsyuk looked very good by the eye. He showcased his quick release in tight on numerous occasions while flexing more power with his one-timer in power play situations.

He threatened on the counter attack and scored in multiple one-on-ones with the goalie, be it on a breakaway or in the shootout.

While he was always quick to pull the trigger when a good shooting opportunity presented itself, he also showed good patience and vision as a playmaker.

Heck, I was even impressed by his effort in board battles and commitment when playing without the puck in the defensive zone. He passed all tests by the eye.

The numbers were just as promising. He produced 2.68 points per 60 at 5v5, all of which were primary.

Gritsyuk generated shots at a very high rate, averaging more than 20.5 attempts per 60 minutes.

That was good for 14th among 442 eligible forwards (30+ minutes), just below snipers like Dylan Guenther and Tyler Toffoli.

Gritsyuk’s on-ice numbers were also strong. He helped the Devils control better than 55% of the xG share and outscore opponents 5-3 along the way.

His preseason play doesn’t guarantee results when the games count. However, his ability to check so many boxes should have everyone optimistic he can be a real contributor from the get go.

I’m excited to see what he and Paul Cotter can do playing against depth lines and 3rd pairings.

The puck stops here 🏒