Notes on quotes from Tom Fitzgerald's year-end availability

New Jersey's GM touched on the team's goaltending situation, the possibility of trading their top pick, and more.

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New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald held his year-end availability on Thursday and had plenty of noteworthy things to say.

Let’s dig in.

Amanda Stein @amandacstein

#NJDevils Tom Fitzgerald says that Shakir Mukhamadullin has received his visa and should be on his way to North America soon. He should go to Utica to spend time with the Comets.

Mookie SZN is upon us. The 20-year-old blueliner will likely get a taste of North American hockey in the coming weeks before, presumably becoming a full-time AHLer next season. I think this is positive news.

Mukhamadullin did not play a lot of minutes in the KHL. That’s not at all abnormal for a young player but that doesn’t mean it is ideal for development. Playoffs included, he appeared in 45 games this season. He played fewer than seven minutes as many times (twice) as he played 20+.

He logged 15 minutes or more only six times over the final 15 games of the season. He was not playing a big role.

That’s not to say his development was completely hindered; that is decent ice for a kid playing in a men’s league. But more ice and more puck touches would be beneficial. He’ll get that in Utica, which will help him grow as a player.

I also think he’ll benefit from playing games on North American sized rinks and learning the style the Devils want him to play.

Not to mention, Kevin Dineen and co. have more vested interest in bringing him along than an organization that knew his time with the team would end sooner than later.