The New Jersey Devils’ 2019 129th overall pick is finally heading to Newark.
Arseni Gritsyuk, born in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, has spent the past two seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League with SKA St. Petersburg, where he tallied 44 points in 49 games.
He signed an entry-level contract with the Devils in May, and SKA officially announced he would be leaving Russia to join New Jersey in North America for the upcoming season.
Arseny Gritsyuk Eyes NHL Debut with New Jersey DevilsArseny Gritsyuk signed with the New Jersey Devils at the end of last season and is expected to make his NHL debut this fall. However, in a recent interview with Russian outlet Sports-Express, the 24-year-old forward clarified the timeline of his move and his expectations.
Gritsyuk is expected to attend Devils training camp this fall, competing for a spot in the lineup. Projected to have a big impact on the Devils’ top six, he brings speed, skill, and scoring touch. In St. Petersburg, he ranked among the top five in points, goals, and assists, and he could provide the offensive spark needed for a deeper playoff push.
Of course, his success will depend on how quickly he adjusts to the North American game. If he doesn’t crack the NHL roster, he’ll suit up for the Devils’ AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets.
In a recent interview with Russian outlet Sports-Express, Gritsyuk shared his plan if he ends up in the minors:
“If things don’t work out, I can go back,” he said. “I’ll try the AHL… but not for long. Two, maybe three months at most.”
It’s a bold statement from a player who has yet to set foot in Newark, but it’s understandable when you consider the financials.
Gritsyuk’s one-year deal is worth $925,000 at the NHL level, but if he plays in the AHL, his salary drops to $70,000, a staggering $855,000 difference.
The pay gap between the two leagues is massive, and Gritsyuk has made it clear his goal is to play in the NHL. By putting a timeline on his stay in the AHL, though, he’s essentially drawing a line before his first game in North America.
Fans shouldn’t be too concerned. Gritsyuk is expected to make the Devils roster and contribute immediately. But on the off chance he starts the season in Utica, we now know he doesn’t plan to stay there long.
A return to the KHL would be a significant loss for New Jersey, especially after projecting him as a key piece in their lineup. Still, his contract leaves the door open, and Gritsyuk has made it clear he’ll walk through it if things don’t go as planned.
Photo Credit: © George Walker IV-Imagn Images
