Nemec was recalled from the Utica Comets ahead of the team's game versus the San Josse Sharks.
NEWARK, N.J. -- It is the moment most New Jersey Devils fans have been waiting for. Simon Nemec, the club's second-overall pick in 2022, will make his National Hockey League debut Friday night at Prudential versus the San Jose Sharks.
"He will be in the lineup tonight, for sure," Ruff said. "(Nemec) knows exactly how he needs to play. I had a conversation with him and he is excited about his opportunity. We just need him to play well."
Nemec has eight points (two goals, six assists) in 13 games with the Utica Comets (American Hockey League) this season.
Currently, the Devils are down two defensemen. Brendan Smith has been suspended for two games for slashing Travis Konecny Thursday night at Wells Fargo Center, and Dougie Hamilton is out indefinitely after having surgery on a torn left pectoral muscle.
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 P.M. Tune into the MSG Networks Devils pre-game show at 6:30 P.M. for Nemec's rookie solo lap ahead of warmups.