Most intriguing addition
Brown could be just what New Jersey needs in the middle of the lineup. The 31-year-old right wing, who spent the past two seasons with the Edmonton Oilers, should be able to offer depth scoring, assistance on the penalty kill and reliability in his own end. Brown scored 12 of his 13 goals last season at even strength (one short-handed goal) for the Oilers; he’s scored 90 of his 107 NHL goals at even strength since entering the League in 2015-16. Devils coach Sheldon Keefe said Brown brings a team-first mentality and will drive practice with his work habits, personality and leadership ability. He can also play alongside elite forwards, like he did in Edmonton.
Biggest potential surprise
Arseny Gritsyuk (6-feet, 195 pounds) is expected to make his NHL debut this season after the forward signed a one-year, entry-level contract on May 6. He has the skill and ability to offer some depth scoring in a possible middle-six role to begin the season and gain valuable advice from fellow countryman and 11-season NHL veteran Dadonov as he navigates his first season in North America. Gritsyuk had 44 points (17 goals, 27 assists) in 49 regular-season games with SKA St. Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League last season, and five points (one goal, four assists) in six KHL playoff games. He also represented Russia at the 2022 Winter Olympics (one goal, two assists in six games).
Ready to contribute
It’s time for Nemec to earn his keep. The 21-year-old defenseman entered training camp in the best shape of his professional career following three months of tough summer training. He came into his own in the playoffs last season following injuries to other defensemen and after struggling to find consistency during the regular season. Nemec will likely partner with Dillon, realizing the opportunity is now to seize a full-time role since Kovacevic (knee) might not be available until the new year. He had a goal, an assist and was plus-3 in four postseason games. The coaching staff wants him to build on that success.