New Jersey Devils prospect Anton Silayev is expected to attend the team's development camp this year, per his agent.
In a text message to The Hockey News, his agent shared they are currently working on his visitor visa.
Selected by the Devils in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, 10th overall, the 6-foot-7, 211-pound defenseman spent last season in the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) with the Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod. In 63 games, Silayev earned a career-high 12 points (2 goals, 10 assists).
At the time of the draft, some projected the young blueliner to go in the top five, with some scouts believing he could go as high as second or third. TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button compared the Russian to a current Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman.
"I see a lot of similarities with the skating, the range of play, the way he defends, and the way he handles things from an overall point of view to Victor Hedman. Silayev's skating is outstanding.
"Silayev, like Hedman, is not worried about impressing anybody. He is just going to play; he is not worried about showing himself off. He's just a really good hockey player, and at 17 years of age, I can't imagine where he will be at 20."
The now 19-year-old attended his first Devils' development camp last year, accompanied by his translator.
"I am very happy to be here," he said through a translator. "I would like to stay longer, but unfortunately, I have to go back to Russia and prepare for the KHL next season there."
Silayev's skating stood out and drew praise from then-Utica Comets' head coach Kevin Dineen.
First look at #NJDevils 10th overall pick Anton Silayev. pic.twitter.com/FGYSmItCuM
— Kristy Flannery (@InStilettos_NHL) July 1, 2024
“Our first rounder, Anton, there is a stature that you notice right away," he said, "but to see him out on the ice and see his skill set, you go, ‘ok, it is not only his size.’ The way he handles the puck, the way he shoots the puck, and just a youthful enthusiasm he carries out there.”
Silayev is signed with Torpedo through the 2025-26 season.
The Devils have not released any information about when their 2025 Development Camp will take place.
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