The New Jersey Devils have struggled recently, but their losses do not diminish the reality that the team has landed a star in rookie Arseny Gritsyuk.
The 24-year-old Russian forward has earned 16 points in his first 33 NHL games, recording seven assists and scoring five goals this season. He averages 15:09 minutes on the ice per game, has taken 76 shots on goal, and has won 50% of his faceoffs this season.
Despite missing a few games with an upper-body injury, Gritsyuk has provided the vital spark this team needed this season.
Gritsyuk was the most highly anticipated addition to the team. After several seasons in the KHL, questions remained about how he would adjust to North American hockey.
Gritsryuk has exceeded expectations, ranking first in stopped shots on goals, shots on goal, and scoring chances.
The forward has contributed both defensively and offensively and has been a reliable player for the team this year. He quickly became a fan favorite on and off the ice and has generated excitement around the Devils early on.
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