Devils Prospects: Rising Stars & Falling Stocks

0:00Welcome to NHL News Today, two minutes of updates that matter to NHL fans. Hit subscribe and stay connected. The New Jersey doubles farm system has stinned out as top prospects graduate to the NHL roster and make impacts there. This monthly series tracks key storylines in their prospect pool, highlighting two players with rising stock and two seeing declines. Viti Lujiva-Arra, a goalie picked in the 2024 draft 5th round at 146 overall, has surged ahead. Samusamainen, a forward from the 2021-3rd round at 68th overall, is also climbing. Lujiva are recently crossed to North America and posted strong numbers with the Chicago Steel in the United States Hockey League. In 19 games, he win 11 wins, 4 losses, 4 ties with the 2.65 goals against average and 910 save percentage. At 6 foot 4 and 207 pounds, he is smooth on skates and quick side to side.

1:00He heads to the University of Connecticut next season for bigger exposure. Meanwhile, Samusainen has heated up at the University of Denver, notching nine points in his last six games as alternate captain. His plus 21 rating ranks 4th on the powerhouse team. Scouts praise his vision and finishing touch. The devils must sign the finish forward by August 15th or lose his rights. On the flip side, forward Conrad Fonderc, a 2025-second round pick at 50th overall, is struggling at Boston University. Once seen as first round talent, he has just 8 points in 25 games with a minus 8 rating. Early concerns about his commitment linger, even as his team faces tough times. Even Anton Salayev, the 2024 first round 10th overall selection at 6 foot 7, has disappointed in the continental hockey. League, he managed only 3 points in 57 games with ice time dipping low at times. Production plunged over 80% from last year, raising doubts despite his size and potential.

2:03The devils may push for a North American move soon. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor, Lincoln the Description. Your pillow just got smarter. It plays your podcast in music, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.