Cholowski Returns To The NHL, Will Make Devils Debut Against Flyers
Dennis Cholowski was at home in Bridgeport, Connecticut, watching TV with his wife when he was notified that the New York Islanders had traded him to the New Jersey Devils.
Nov 19, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; New York Islanders defenseman Dennis Cholowski (25) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn ImagesThe 6-foot-2, 210-pound defenseman was acquired in exchange for Utica Comets (AHL) forward Adam Beckman.
"It is a bit of a change," Cholowski said of being in New Jersey. "Every team is a little different. All these guys have been really welcoming. So, it is really good to have guys say hello and ask how you are doing and stuff. It has been good so far."
The Devils mark his fifth NHL team, as Cholowski previously played for the Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals, Seattle Kraken, and Islanders. The 27-year-old's last NHL game was on Feb 8, 2025, as his last six appearances were with the Bridgeport Islanders in the American Hockey League.
Based on Saturday's practice, Cholowski was expected to draw into Sunday's lineup at Wells Fargo Center against the Philadelphia Flyers alongside Brenden Dillon. During his pregame media availability, head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed the defenseman would make his Devils debut.
"I am excited, just (do) whatever they ask me, try to play solid, be good defensively, and join the offense whenever I can, but be steady back there," Cholowski said on Saturday. "Do whatever I can to help the team."
Over his six seasons in the NHL, he has 40 points in 150 games. He has three goals and 10 points in this 2024-25 campaign.
Puck drop between the Devils and Flyers will be at 1:00 p.m. Fans can watch on TNT, TRUTV, Max, or listen on the Devils Hockey Network.
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