Devils Claim Noesen

The Devils added another former Anaheim Duck to their roster Wednesday by claiming former first-round pick Stefan Noesen off waivers. First reported by Elliotte Friedman, the move continues a trend in General Manager Ray Shero’s moves of acquiring former high picks to see if a change of scenery will help.

About Noesen

Noesen, 23, orignally selected as 21st overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft by the Ottawa Senators, was traded to Anaheim for forward Bobby Ryan. Since joining Anaheim, he as played only 14 NHL games, totaling two assists. In the AHL this season he has 15 points in 22 games, good for 4th on the San Diego Gulls.

Drafted as a skill player, Noesen has struggled with injuries throughout his career, having over 27 games once in his pro career. While injuries have certainly limited his playing time, he was also stuck on the 4th line in Anaheim, with his highest time on ice this season is 8:32, he has only been over seven minutes 5 times in 12 games. However, with New Jersey he will have a chance with the lack of depth at right wing.

Impact on the Devils

In a necessary corresponding move, Beau Bennett was also placed on IR today, allowing the Devils to claim Noesen from the Ducks. Even though Noesen couldn’t be in New Jersey yet, just being claimed at Noon, Andrew Gross at The Record reports he will be available for tomorrow’s game and will make his debut.

Noesen, having injuries in the past, will get a fresh start in New Jersey. With the injury to Bennett and lack of right wing depth, Noesen will likely have the opportunity to slot in the middle-six for New Jersey. A physical player, he has some scoring upside and could project as a third liner long-term if he manages to stay healthy.

Your Thoughts

Do you think Noesen will manage to stay healthy? If healthy, what impact do you think he will have on the team? Can he manage scoring upside and slot into the third line? Let us know your thoughts and as always, thank you for reading.