New Jersey Devils top prospect, Simon Nemec, made some comments earlier this week when discussing his future with the Devils and his current status in the AHL (as per Tomáš Prokop of Dennik Sports). The defenseman stated that he was not happy with his current position in the AHL and voiced his displeasure, saying that he feels he has proven that he belongs in the NHL. He also added that it is too early to request a trade but at some point, the situation would need to be addressed.
The 2022 second-overall pick is in his third professional season, most of which he has spent with the Utica Comets of the AHL. However, last season the 20-year-old did dress in 60 NHL games with New Jersey and was effective, tallying three goals and 16 assists and garnering some Calder Trophy consideration for top rookie.
James Nichols of New Jersey Hockey Now reached out to the Devils organization to see if they were aware of any frustrations with Nemec and said they weren’t aware of that but knew that he was disappointed to be playing outside the NHL.
Nemec did mention in his interview that he felt he was moving on from one of the toughest times he’s had in hockey, as he dealt with an upper-body injury earlier this season that he suffered at the 2026 Olympic qualifiers. Nemec was able to make the team out of training camp but had a very slow start in the NHL, posting just a single assist in nine games before he was demoted to Utica.
He’s been good in the AHL, posting 16 points in 23 games. However, the tricky part for Nemec is that the Devils’ defense is deep, and they are playing some great hockey this season, which adds to the challenge of getting back to the NHL.
Central piece for a JT Miller trade?
I’d love for the blues to get in on this. A first round pick and peronuvich? Maybe a first plus binnington with 50 percent retained?
Why would the Devils want Binnington? They have a Vezina candidate and one of the best backups in the league?
You must be high
You don’t seem to be aware that all teams involved in any trade must agree on the terms.
My scouting notes for him in his draft year described his difficulties in making good decisions under pressure in the defensive zone. He was a turnover machine. I’ve been very surprised by his success in the NHL so far, but I have not seen him play since.
Dougie Hamilton made his displeasure
Play better Simon.
Trading him to keep dillon, kovacevic or Hamilton would be a shortsigted mistake. He’ll be a full time NHLer in 2026, just needs to keep growing and be patient.