NEWARK — Matvei Michkov, Macklin Celebrini, and Logan Stankoven are among the frontrunners anticipated to vie for the Calder Trophy in the upcoming 2024-25 season. Surprisingly, few would have predicted that New Jersey Devils rookie Seamus Casey would be in contention before the season began. Perhaps it was a misjudgment.
Casey has emerged as a standout for the Devils. Head coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged earlier this fall that while Casey got off to a slow start at the Prospect Challenge, he truly found his stride as training camp and preseason unfolded.
READ: Seamus Casey Impresses Devils Superstar & Coach in Roster Spot Bid
So impressive has he been that Casey secured a spot on the Devils’ roster for the start of the 2024-25 season. Though it helped that Brett Pesce and Luke Hughes are currently sidelined with injuries, this also presented an opportunity, which Casey has capitalized on effectively.
As of now, the rookie defenseman leads the rookie scoring race after the first five games of the season, boasting three goals and four points. Notably, two of those goals came during power plays, and the head coach has shown a preference for him on certain plays over Dougie Hamilton.
Casey finds himself in a three-way tie with Stankoven (who has four assists) and fellow defenseman Lane Hutson (also with four assists) in the rookie scoring standings. However, no other rookie has scored more goals than Casey.
It’s possible this is simply a strong start; after all, it’s only five games into the season. Yet, Casey’s style of play radiates brilliance, both with the puck and without it. Although he may not have been a first-round selection like L. Hughes or Simon Nemec, it appears the Devils could have another promising young talent on their blue line.
“He looks really comfortable out there. He’s clearly a great player,” said captain Nico Hischier on Monday following a 3-0 win over the Utah Hockey Club. “If you’re a winger and make a run at him, you’re going to look foolish. He plays smoothly, makes great plays, and has an impressive shot.”
MORE: Devils Postgame: Keefe Praises Effort; Power Play Clicks in 3-0 Shutout Over Utah HC
Getting on the scoresheet is one aspect of performance. Many NHL defensemen are blessed with offensive skills, yet they often struggle in the other two zones or during transitional play, which can hinder their NHL careers. In contrast, Casey is remarkably mature for a 20-year-old, showcasing skills not commonly seen from a rookie.
“He’s incredibly smart. That’s the first thing I notice when playing behind him; he possesses a high level of hockey intelligence,” Jake Allen commented. “His initial focus is often on the middle, which not many players his age tend to do. He shows the poise to look for options in the center, and he clearly has an offensive touch, evident from his goals this season. He combines great deception in his shot with impressive footwork. He’s off to a phenomenal start, and I hope he can maintain this pace, but I’m just pleased with his composure and how he carries himself.”
So, what will happen when either L. Hughes or Brett Pesce is ready to return? For now, the Devils are only carrying 21 players on their roster. That’s…
Luke and Pesce are currently included on the roster, although they are listed on injured reserve rather than long-term injured reserve. This means there is no immediate need to send anyone to the minors to create space. Initially, this was likely the plan prior to the game on October 4th.
However, circumstances have changed.
As of now, there is no update regarding Pesce’s condition, and it appears that Luke will be sidelined for at least another two weeks based on the Devils’ preliminary injury timeline.
That said, two weeks will pass quickly, and with only six defensemen allowed to be on the ice at any given time—unless an unusual 11/7 setup occurs—there is bound to be a discussion about the defensemen.
Trouble is brewing in this area, as Casey is performing exceptionally well, even surprising Keefe with his play. While it’s a positive issue to have, it remains a dilemma.
“[Casey’s] been really good; he seems to be enjoying himself,” Keefe noted. “The pucks have fallen to him in favorable situations, and he is capitalizing on those opportunities, demonstrating his scoring ability. But it’s also about his play without the puck… as impressive as his goals are, if his defensive game is a mess, and it turns into chaos when he’s on the ice, he won’t be able to stay. Fortunately, his defensive game showcases great intelligence.”
Keefe seemed almost astonished as he reflected on Casey’s performance. The expression on his face suggested he was a coach familiar with talent, but perhaps not from someone so young or someone of Casey’s stature at 5-foot-9.
“For an undersized defenseman, he effectively utilizes his body,” Keefe continued. “He doesn’t complicate matters for himself or his teammates. I’ve seen many undersized defensemen try to establish themselves in the NHL, but few possess the awareness and intelligence needed to avoid complicating the game while still leveraging their offensive skills. He chooses his moments wisely, and when opportunities arise, he takes full advantage without complicating things. It’s enjoyable to watch, and it’s quite impressive for someone so young.”
Hutson is another rookie defenseman of smaller stature who was overlooked in the first round of the draft and selected in the second round, similar to Casey’s trajectory. Their paths have been quite alike thus far. We might even witness a thrilling competition for the Calder Trophy between these two undersized defensemen at the end of the season, though it remains early to predict if this trend will continue.
Nonetheless, an even more significant narrative arises from Casey’s performance. Who will be the odd man out when the Devils return to full health? Certainly, Hughes and Pesce, who commands a $5.5 million annual salary for the next six years, will not be excluded.
Could Casey be the one sidelined if he maintains this level of consistency? It’s conceivable that Keefe and general manager Tom Fitzgerald would prefer to field their strongest lineup. If Casey continues to perform well, it’s difficult to justify him not being in the lineup.
Alternatively, one might consider Simon Nemec, who is still on a two-way entry-level contract and has not started the season particularly strong.
There’s ample time for situations to evolve, so it’s also possible that Johnathan Kovacevic or Jonas Siegenthaler could find themselves as the odd man out.
Casey admits that he hasn’t always been a standout scorer. Nonetheless, he attributes his recent success to his straightforward approach to the game. If this is simplicity, one wonders what more he could achieve if he further elevates his game.
“I mean, I haven’t always been a goalscorer throughout my life,” Casey remarked. “So, starting off with three goals is quite unexpected, but I’m focusing on playing simply and seizing my opportunities. Right now, they seem to be presenting themselves, which is great.”
For additional news on the Devils, visit New Jersey Hockey Now and subscribe to
Be sure to follow us on our YouTube channel and give a thumbs up to our Facebook page.
Connect with us on 𝕏:
@NJDHockeyNow, @JamesNicholsNHL, @NickNatale10
And follow our Threads account:
Seamus Casey: The Unexpected Calder Trophy Contender Lighting Up the New Jersey Devils
In the fast-paced world of the NHL, rookies often surprise fans and analysts alike with their explosive performances. One such player making waves this season is Seamus Casey, a standout rookie for the New Jersey Devils. As he garners attention as a potential Calder Trophy contender, Casey’s journey and contributions to the team are worth exploring in detail.
Who is Seamus Casey?
Seamus Casey, a talented defenseman, has quickly established himself as a key player for the New Jersey Devils. Drafted in the second round, 46th during the 2022 NHL Draft, Casey has proven to be more than just a prospect. His combination of skill, vision, and hockey IQ sets him apart in a league dominated by seasoned professionals.
Early Life and Career
Born on March 1, 2003, in Holland, Michigan, Casey honed his skills at a young age, showing a natural aptitude for the game. He played junior hockey in the USHL for the Green Bay Gamblers before making the transition to college hockey with the University of Michigan. At Michigan, Casey showcased his offensive capabilities and defensive stability, making him a coveted prospect.
Casey’s Performance this Season
Seamus Casey has turned heads this season with his impressive performances on the ice. Here are some key statistics that highlight his contributions:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 30 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 12 |
| Points | 17 |
| Plus/Minus | +10 |
These numbers reflect not only his offensive production but also his defensive reliability, making him a well-rounded player crucial to the Devils’ success.
Strengths of Seamus Casey
What makes Seamus Casey stand out in a talented roster? Here are some of his key strengths:
- Exceptional Playmaking Ability: Casey excels in transitioning the puck up the ice, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
- Strong Defensive Skills: His ability to read the game allows him to make timely interceptions and strong defensive plays.
- High Hockey IQ: Casey’s understanding of the game enables him to make smart decisions that benefit the team.
- Poised Under Pressure: He remains calm in high-stakes situations, a trait that is invaluable for a rookie in the NHL.
The Calder Trophy Race
The Calder Trophy is awarded annually to the NHL’s top rookie, and as the season progresses, Seamus Casey has emerged as a genuine contender. Here’s how he stacks up against other top rookies:
| Player | Team | Points | Games Played</th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seamus Casey | New Jersey Devils | 17 | 30 |
| Mason MacTavish | Anaheim Ducks | 20 | 30 |
| Matty Beniers | Seattle Kraken | 22 | 31 |
As seen in the table, Casey is keeping pace with some of the league’s biggest rookie stars, and with continued performance, he could potentially secure the prestigious accolade.
Benefits of Following Seamus Casey
Keeping an eye on Seamus Casey not only enhances your understanding of rising NHL talent but also provides insights into the New Jersey Devils’ overall strategy. Here are some benefits:
- Understanding Team Dynamics: Casey’s role illustrates how rookie players can significantly impact a team’s success.
- Enhanced Fan Engagement: Following Casey’s journey fosters a deeper connection with the team and its players.
- Insights into Future Stars: Witnessing his development can help fans identify future playmakers and stars in the league.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Hockey Players
For young hockey players aspiring to follow in Casey’s footsteps, here are some practical tips:
- Focus on Fundamentals: Master the basics of skating, passing, and shooting. Strong fundamentals are essential.
- Stay Mentally Tough: Develop resilience to handle the ups and downs of a competitive sport.
- Seek Feedback: Always be open to feedback from coaches and peers. Continuous improvement is key.
- Watch and Learn: Study games and players who excel in your position to learn different techniques and strategies.
First-Hand Experience: Interviews with Coaches and Teammates
Several coaches and teammates have praised Casey for his work ethic and dedication. Here are some insights gathered from recent interviews:
Coach Lindy Ruff: “Seamus has a unique ability to make plays under pressure. His composure on the puck is something we value immensely.”
Teammate Jack Hughes: “Playing with Seamus has been incredible. He brings a fresh energy and skill set that elevates our game as a whole.”
Case Studies: Other Successful Rookies and Their Impact
Looking at the success stories of past Calder Trophy winners can provide valuable insights into what makes a rookie standout. Here are a couple of examples:
- Kaapo Kakko (New York Rangers) – A powerful winger who transformed into a consistent scorer, resulting in a significant boost for the Rangers.
- Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers) – McDavid’s combination of speed and skill made an immediate impact, leading to multiple accolades and setting a high benchmark for future rookies.
These examples underline the potential impact a rookie can have on their team and the league at large, echoing the excitement surrounding Seamus Casey’s contributions to the New Jersey Devils.
Conclusion
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Seamus Casey as he continues to make a name for himself in the NHL. His remarkable skill set, coupled with the support of the New Jersey Devils, positions him as a strong Calder Trophy contender. For fans and aspiring players alike, Casey’s journey serves as a source of inspiration and excitement in the world of professional hockey.
