Devils Recall Top Forward Prospect, AHL Leading Scorer

The New Jersey Devils are calling for some forward depth in the absence of Timo Meier. The Devils recalled their AHL affiliate’s leading scorer, Graeme Clarke, for Wednesday’s tilt with the Washington Capitals, the team announced. He joined the Devils for their morning skate at Capital One Arena.

Clarke is putting together another quality season for the Utica Comets. In 27 games thus far, Clarke’s potted a team-leading 11 goals and 21 points. He’s second to only Xavier Parent in the overall points category this season.

Last season, Clarke led the Comets in points and goals. He put together 25 goals and 58 points in 68 AHL games.

Last fall, Clarke expected himself to make the NHL roster following his breakout 2022-23 performance. However, Clarke was edged out by the likes of Alexander Holtz and a bloated roster of forwards. Now, he’ll have the opportunity to try and make an impression if and when he is inserted into the NHL lineup.

“I gotta show I can be a well-rounded player,” Clarke explained in September. “Whether that’s in a third or fourth-line role. I have to do whatever I can to get on the team and go from there. Just get on the team, and gain the trust of the coaching staff. That’s what I talked about at my year-end meeting with the coaches. Gaining the trust with Lindy (Ruff) or anyone else and knowing I can be on the ice.”

After sitting out the first two games on recall, the Devils sustained an injury to All-Star forward Jack Hughes. As a result, Graeme Clarke makes his NHL debut on Saturday vs. the Vancouver Canucks.

In 178 AHL games, Clarke’s scored 54 goals and 121 points.

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