The New Jersey Devils’ 129th overall draft pick from 2019, Arseny Gritsyuk, is finally making his way to Newark. Hailing from Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Gritsyuk has spent the past two seasons playing in the Ska St. Petersburg team within the Cranchin Hockey League, where he accumulated 44 points across 49 games.
In May, he signed an entry-level contract with the Devils, and Ska confirmed his departure from Russia to join the New Jersey franchise in North America for the upcoming season. The 24-year-old forward recently spoke with Russian outlet Sports Express about his plans and expectations for his NHL debut this fall.
Gritsyuk will participate in the Devils’ Training Camp, aiming to secure a spot on the NHL roster. Known for his speed, skill, and scoring ability, he previously ranked among the top five in points, goals, and assists in St. Petersburg, providing vital offensive energy for playoff runs. However, his ultimate success will hinge on how quickly he adapts to the North American style of hockey. If he doesn’t make the NHL roster, he will play for the Devils’ AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets.
In his interview, Gritsyuk emphasized that if things don’t go as hoped, he won’t linger in the AHL beyond two or three months before potentially returning to Russia. This stance is quite assertive, especially since he hasn’t yet played in Newark, but the financial difference is a significant factor. His contract pays $925,000 at the NHL level but drops sharply to $70,000 in the AHL—a difference of $855,000.
The large salary gap between leagues motivates Gritsyuk’s determination to play in the NHL, and his short AHL timeline shows he’s confident about his prospects. Fans can expect him to make an immediate impact if he earns a Devils roster spot, and even if he starts in Utica, he likely won’t remain there long.
Losing him back to the KHL would be a major setback for New Jersey, especially given his potential as a key player. His contract remains active, but Gritsyuk has made it clear that if things don’t unfold as planned, he’s prepared to make tough decisions.
Photo credit: ©George Walker IV-imagn Image
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Fan Take: Arseny Gritsyuk’s arrival is exciting news for Devils fans eager to see fresh talent inject speed and scoring into their lineup. His clear ambition and quick adaptation could make him a pivotal young star, while his bold stance on his NHL future adds an intriguing storyline to watch this season.
