With the trade deadline behind us, it is time to take a look at some of the Utica Comets who may be recalled once the Devils are officially eliminated. In this article, I make the case for Topias Vilen’s NHL debut this season.
Originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by the New Jersey Devils, Topias Vilen is a 22-year-old defenseman now in his third full season with the Utica Comets. Voted the most-improved Comet last season by the team, Vilen has been known throughout most of his career for his defensive play and puck-moving abilities.
While plus/minus has its detractors, it can have value when comparing teammates. Vilen is 2nd on the Comets with a +4 on a Utica team with a -35 goal differential and has been paired recently with former NHLer Calen Addison, a -14 on the season. Only five skaters on the Comets, who have suited up for 30 or more games, have a positive rating with defenseman Dmitry Osipov leading the team with a +5.
Vilen’s offensive never really popped as much as prospect followers had hoped after his 9 goal breakout for the Pelicans of the Liiga in 2022-23, but with his skill as a puck-mover, Vilen has been quietly picking up assists and has 19 points in 50 games this season, down from his AHL high of 29 in 54 contests. With Seamus Casey out of the lineup due to injury, Vilen has been playing an increased offensive role as of late, even taking shifts on the power play. All in all, while Vilen’s offensive numbers aren’t exactly awe-inspiring, they aren’t a black hole either, and Vilen is perfectly-capable of a more offensive role when called upon.
Overall, Vilen still has a chance to develop into a bottom-pairing defenseman in the NHL, but his time is dwindling. While that opportunity may not happen on a team so defensively-stacked as the Devils, New Jersey lacks puck-movers, and Vilen could help with that. Alternatively, a NHL showcase might be enough for another team to take a chance on Vilen should the Devils decide to move on from him this offseason. Either way, Vilen’s progress should be explored should the Devils be mathematically eliminated.
Far from a blast, defenseman Chase Cheslock picked the perfect time for his first goal of the season.
Post your hockey-related comments below.