Arseni Gritsyuk (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
SKA St. Petersburg forward Arseni Gritsyuk is expected to sign an entry-level contract with the New Jersey Devils according to RG sources.
The one-year, two-way deal would begin next season and mark the 24-year-old winger’s long-awaited transition to the NHL. While the deal has yet to be formally announced by the club, sources indicate that negotiations are in the final stages and that both sides are optimistic about completing the process without issue.
Gritsyuk, who was drafted by the Devils in the fifth round of the 2019 NHL Draft (129th overall), has steadily developed into one of the most dynamic offensive talents in Russian hockey. His progression in the KHL, particularly over the past two seasons, has been closely monitored by New Jersey’s scouting and development staff, who believe he is ready to compete for a roster spot at the NHL level.
Breakout in the KHL
This season, Gritsyuk delivered his most complete campaign to date, recording 44 points (17 goals, 27 assists) in 49 KHL regular-season games. He led SKA with a +22 rating and played significant minutes in all situations. His ability to generate offense while maintaining responsible two-way play made him a staple in the team’s top six. In the postseason, he continued to contribute, notching five points (1 goal, 4 assists) in six appearances.
The forward’s versatility and hockey IQ have made him a favorite among coaches and teammates alike. Known for his quick first step and slick puckhandling, Gritsyuk has been particularly effective in transition and on the power play. With New Jersey looking to inject more skill and speed into its lineup, his arrival could be well-timed for a team hoping to take the next step in its rebuild.
Thank You, SKA
While Gritsyuk declined to comment for RG, he appeared to acknowledge his impending departure on social media. In an Instagram post earlier this week, he thanked SKA fans for two “memorable” years in St. Petersburg and expressed gratitude to the organization for helping him develop both on and off the ice. The message, which included several photos of him in SKA colors, was widely shared among teammates and supporters, further fueling speculation about his next move.
A Long-Term Investment Taking Shape
Gritsyuk’s signing would represent a patient payoff for the Devils, who drafted him six years ago but allowed him to continue developing in Russia. That approach appears to have paid off. Now entering his prime, Gritsyuk brings pro experience, international pedigree, and a game that is well-suited to the NHL’s current pace and style. The one-year, two-way structure of the deal also gives both sides flexibility as he acclimates to the North American game.
With training camp just months away, Gritsyuk is expected to arrive in New Jersey this summer to begin preparations. His ability to make an immediate impact will depend on how quickly he adapts to the smaller ice surface and physicality of NHL competition. But if his KHL trajectory is any indication, the Devils may have found another valuable piece for their emerging core.
Daria Tuboltseva
