Simon Nemec Is Frustrated He’s Trapped In The AHL

Simon Nemec Is Frustrated He’s Trapped In The AHL

The New Jersey Devils have a loaded blue line right now. When healthy (which has been the case most of the season) the six D includes Dougie Hamilton, Brett Pesce, Johnathan Kovacevic, Jonas Siegenthaler, Brenden Dillon, and Luke Hughes. That means Seamus Casey and former second overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft Simon Nemec are stuck in the AHL.

Nemec recently voiced his frustrations that he’s buried in the system being forced to play for Utica.

VIA Slovak reporter Tomáš Prokop:

“It’s a business, but on the other hand, right now I can’t remember any number two draft pick that went to the farm for a third year,” Nemec said.

“It’s hard to say, it’s still too early to request a trade. If this situation continues, it will need to be addressed, but for now, this is where things stand.”

“Sometimes it feels like NHL games were easier compared to AHL. The farm league is really tough, with grinding, battling, I believe I’ve proven multiple times that I belong in the NHL. I just have to wait for another chance and grab it when it comes.”

“He didn’t want me to sit in the stands in the NHL, and would rather me go play in the AHL. He told me I’ll improve,” said Nemec.

Nemec, 20, probably has a right to be a little frustrated. Last year he played 60 games with the Devils and was asked to do far too much during his rookie campaign. He basically got a demotion after the offseason additions of Pesce, Dillon, and Kovacevic.

On the flip side of things, New Jersey didn’t break any rules here. Nemec was still waivers exempt and he’s improved his game this year in the minors. He likely is the next call up if an injury were to occur. Nemec has 18 points in 25 games this year for Utica, which isn’t too shabby for a defenseman.

Nemec clearly has a ton of potential. It’s a matter of finding a spot for him in the lineup. I’d guess that will happen regardless next year but maybe he will try to force his way out before that. By the sound of his comments, a resolution may come sooner rather than later.

The more fascinating part is whether the Devils will use Nemec as trade bait to improve the team at the trade deadline. A possibility that seems more likely after these comments.

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