Santeri Hatakka Will Make Devils Debut Against Golden Knights

Hatakka was recalled from the American Hockey League on Jan. 18.

Santeri Hatakka, 23, will make his New Jersey Devils debut Monday night against the Vegas Golden Knights. He will replace veteran Colin Miller, who cannot play due to an illness.

The defenseman was recalled from the Utica Comets (American Hockey League) on Jan. 18 after the organization placed veteran blueliner Brendan Smith on injured reserve.

After the team's morning skate, Hatakka spoke about his focus for tonight's game, and it was simple: do my job, skate a lot, and compete hard.

Hatakka's last NHL game was on April 17, 2022, as a member of the San Jose Sharks. He has appeared in nine career games and has collected two assists.

Against the Golden Knights, the 6-foot-1 defenseman is expected to play with Cal Foote, with whom he is familiar.

"We played a lot together this year," Hatakka said. "We know each other pretty well on and off the ice. I think it helps when we have that experience together. We're a pretty stable pair. Cal has more experience in the NHL. He's more stay at home, move the puck well and support me in the battles. I can bring fast skating to our game."

Hatakka was acquired from the Sharks as part of the Timo Meier trade on Feb. 26, 2023. He was selected 184th overall by San Jose in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.

With Miller out of the lineup, the Devils' defense will have an average age of 22. Below are the defensive pairs used during the team's morning skate.

Kevin Bahl - Simon Nemec

Luke Hughes - John Marino

Santeri Hatakka - Cal Foote 

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