This week the prospect update looks at three players in the system who need to show something more this season.
Tyler Brennan
Entering his third and final season on his ELC, goaltender Tyler Brennan has struggled to gain traction playing exclusively for the Adirondack Thunder since his signing despite a few emergency call-ups as a back up with no game action.
The struggles began almost immediately for Brennan in a injury-riddled first professional season that saw the netminder suit up for only 13 games. The 6’4” goaltender never fully regained his form last season, finishing the year 9-16-3 with a 3.48 GAA and .878 SV% in 29 appearances. Although earning more starts, platooning goaltender Jeremy Brodeur outshined Brennan in net with a 11-11-1 record, 2.89 GAA and .905 SV% earning him a one-way contract to Utica for this upcoming season.
The Utica net may be overcrowded this season with the arrival of Jakub Malek, depending on whether or not Nico Daws clears waivers. So, opportunities for Tyler Brennan may be few and far between. One thing is for certain. If the 21-year-old netminder wants to stay in the Devils system after his ELC expires, then he must first impress in net for the Thunder. This upcoming season will be a big test for him.
Josh Filmon
Josh Filmon has been an intriguing prospect for so long, it is hard to remember the winger is only 21-years-old. Filmon rocketed up the depth chart after a 47 goal season for Swift Current in 2023-24. Concerns crept in soon after as Filmon followed up that magical year with a 27 goal effort for the same WHL team, though improved playmaking increased his assists from 28 to 40, making up some of the point deficit.
Last season Josh Filmon made the permanent leap to professional hockey and struggled for much of the season, earning a demotion to Adirondack after 12 pointless games. After some initial setbacks for the Thunder, Filmon found his game mid season, leading the team as the Thunder’s only 20 goal scorer. Coaches even praised Filmon’s growth throughout the year.
So, all is not lost for Josh Filmon. A bounce back is certainly likely, but how far Filmon rises may depend on how much muscle the young winger can pack onto his wiry frame. For this upcoming season, establishing himself as a Utica regular, who contributes offensively would be an important step in his development.
Samu Salminen
Entering his senior year for the University of Denver, Samu Salminen’s future with the franchise will be decided one way or another by the end of next summer. After two 17 point seasons for the University of Connecticut, Salminen improved to 10 goals and 28 points after a transfer last year, playing mostly center. It was a big step.
The Devils could use more center prospects on the Comets and Salminen would seem to fit that bill, but has not signed yet. Wherever Salminen ends up after this upcoming season, this will be a pivotal year for the center hoping to earn an ELC. The prospect update wishes him the best of luck.
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