New Jersey Devils Recall Lenni Hameenaho
On February 17, the New Jersey Devils announced the recall of forward Lenni Hameenaho from their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, as the Olympic break came to a close. This marks a significant moment for the 21-year-old, who had made his NHL debut earlier this season on January 19. During his time with the Devils, Hameenaho participated in nine games, contributing a total of four points through two goals and two assists.
Coach’s Insights on Hameenaho
Head coach Sheldon Keefe has recently praised Hameenaho’s ability to adapt to the NHL, remarking on NJD.tv:
“It’s clear he fits in here. He’s a young talent who can move up and down without needing waivers. His performance prior to the Olympic break indicated he has the potential to support our team at this level.”
However, Keefe also recognized the challenges ahead for Hameenaho:
“Although he’s adjusted well, the remainder of the season is still a long journey. We need to support his growth as a coaching staff, especially as the initial phase of success can fade. Many players experience a short stint of productivity when first entering the NHL but struggle to maintain that level. That’s why developing prospects in the AHL for a longer period is essential; we want players to feel fully prepared upon their arrival and not have to return.”
Staying Updated on the Devils
After a brief stint in the AHL, Hameenaho has re-joined the Devils. To stay updated on the Devils, fans can visit The Hockey News’ site for the latest updates, interviews, and analysis. Additionally, subscriptions are available for exclusive content and the full magazine archive from The Hockey News at THN.com/free, along with a newsletter for trending stories in hockey.
