Is Signing Arseni Gritsyuk Now the Right Move for the Devils?

The cases for and against signing Arseni Gritsyuk to his entry-level contract for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.

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The New Jersey Devils didn't add a top-six/middle-six forward at the trade deadline, much to everyone's chagrin. But that doesn't mean they still can't add some reinforcements. Arseni Gritsyuk's KHL season came to an end over the weekend, and he may sign an entry-level contract before the NHL season concludes.

HockeyNewsHub reported yesterday that he's heard Gritsyuk could sign his ELC soon, though a new report this morning stated he'll sign his ELC after May 31, 2025, when KHL contracts expire. His ELC can only be for one year because of his age (24), so he would burn it immediately. What's the best path for the Devils and Gritsyuk?

The Case for Signing Gritsyuk Now

The hype for Gritsyuk among Devils fans is warranted. He finished this season with 44 points in 49 games for SKA St. Petersburg. That translates to 59 points over 82 NHL games, per Dobber Prospects' NHLe tool. He could be a big help, especially if the Devils were healthy.

Still, even without Jack Hughes, there's an argument to bring Gritsyuk over for a playoff run. The Carolina Hurricanes will be the favorites over the Devils in Round 1, but they aren't unbeatable.

We've seen the Hurricanes get goalie'd enough times in the playoffs. If Jacob Markström is on top of his game, maybe he can steal that series. But the Devils would need some scoring, too, and that's where Gritsyuk could help.

Timo Meier, Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier are doing their part in Jack Hughes' absence. Luke Hughes has stepped up with Dougie Hamilton out, and Hamilton could be back for Round 1. Throw Gritsyuk into the mix, and the Devils have a bit more scoring pop in their lineup.

Gritsyuk's agent has stated that he intends to come over and play for the Devils. Gritsyuk also posted a goodbye to SKA St. Petersburg on Instagram this morning, so I'm not worried about him staying in the KHL.

But if you need to do this to make the player happy, then do it. Yes, it'd burn his ELC immediately, but if it makes the player happy, then who cares?