Welcome to the The Hockey Writers’ Countdown of the ten most impactful players of the 2024-25 season. This is not a countdown of the ten best but rather a list of those players who are slated to have the biggest impact. These are ten players who offer unique contributions, are difficult to replace and essential to the Devils’ quest to return to the postseason. The list begins with Curtis Lazar, coming in at #10.
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An unheralded acquisition at the 2023 Trade Deadline, Curtis Lazar was a steal for the New Jersey Devils. General manager Tom Fitzgerald picked up Lazar in exchange for a future fourth-round pick. Lazar’s introduction to New Jersey was difficult; between complications related to his work visa, moving 3000 miles away from his pregnant wife and young son and then suffering a torn MCL, Lazar persevered and contributed to the Devils’ comeback victory over the New York Rangers in the first round of the playoffs.
He returned to the Devils rejuvenated in training camp and demonstrated his value immediately as the only player to play all eight preseason contests. His preseason play was a harbinger of the campaign ahead as he became an integral part of the team on the ice and a fan favorite off of it.
Lazar Has First-Round Talent
Drafted 17th overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2013 NHL Draft, Lazar left the Western Hockey League with a reputation for relentless play, dangerous speed, and a knack for being clutch. Heading into the draft, Lazar told NHL.com, “I won’t ‘wow’ people with my offensive numbers, but it’s the little things that I take great pride in If it’s blocking a shot or winning a faceoff in the [defensive] zone, those are the types of things I like to do.”
His natural talent combined with humility and maturity has served him well in his travels throughout the NHL, where he has been a valuable member of the Senators, Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, and now the Devils.
Like many high draft picks, Lazar has molded his game to fit the needs of his team. Fortunately, he has not compromised his speed or tenacity, which makes him a perfect fit for New Jersey. Last season, as injuries mounted, Lazar played up and down the lineup, chipping in secondary scoring to ease the burden on the lineup, setting a career-high of 25 points.
His play and leadership made him the…
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