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SOURCE: Devils Expected to Recall Leading AHL Scorer

A source confirms to New Jersey Hockey Now that the Devils are expected to recall their AHL-leading scorer ahead of Maple Leafs tilt.

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New Jersey Devils left wing Brian Halonen during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, in Newark, N.J. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray)

According to a source, New Jersey Hockey now has learned that the New Jersey Devils are expected to recall their American Hockey League affiliate’s leading scorer.



Forward Brian Halonen is expected to meet the Devils in Toronto, ahead of the Devils’ third tilt with the Toronto Maple Leafs this season.

Halonen leads the AHL Utica Comets in both goals (13) and points (21) in 31 games. On Saturday, against the Toronto Marlies, Halonen registered a goal and an assist in a 4-1 Comets victory.

Last season, Halonen registered 20 goals in 35 AHL games in AHL Utica. This season, Halonen is on pace for his first 30-goal season in his professional hockey career.

However, Halonen’s AHL pace may slow up a bit as his services are required at the NHL level. The Devils are currently a bit nicked up, missing Erik Haula to an ankle injury, and Stefan Noesen isn’t expected to travel to Toronto as he’s dealing with an illness.

During Wednesday’s Devils practice, the line combinations looked the way they did when the Devils faced the Florida Panthers Tuesday evening. However, there’s reason to believe Halonen will at least skate on the fourth line alongside Curtis Lazar and Nathan Bastian, with Tomas Tatar remaining elevated and Kurtis MacDermid coming out of the lineup.

Halonen, an undrafted forward, signed a two-year, two-way contract in May to remain with New Jersey’s organization for the next couple of seasons. The 26-year-old forward has two games of NHL experience under his belt, skating in two games for New Jersey in their injury ladened 2023-24.

Halonen has showcased a heavy shot at the AHL-level, however, expect the 207 lb forward to play a physical, checking role with the Devils.

Although, New Jersey is searching for depth scoring. This could be Halonen’s chance to make an impression.

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