Lenni Hameenaho, a promising prospect for the New Jersey Devils, is set to make his NHL debut tonight against the Calgary Flames. The 21-year-old Finnish right-winger was recalled from the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League (AHL) on Saturday.
Hameenaho's debut comes as the Devils look to shake things up amidst inconsistent play. According to team reporter Amanda Stein, Hameenaho participated in the morning skate on Monday, skating on a line with Cody Glass and Arseny Gritsyuk. To make room for Hameenaho in the lineup, both Juho Lammikko and Colton White were placed on waivers. White was then assigned to AHL Utica. Additionally, Glendening and Kovacevic will be out, with Nemec entering the lineup and Cotter moving to center.
Prior to his recall, Hameenaho was having a strong season with the Utica Comets, leading the team in scoring with 21 points in 33 games, comprised of nine goals and 12 assists.
Hameenaho was drafted by the Devils in the second round of the 2023 NHL Draft, selected 58th overall. He then signed a three-year entry-level contract with the team in May 2025. Before joining the Devils organization, Hameenaho played for Ässät in Finland's Liiga, where he made his debut at age 17. Last season, he recorded a breakout offensive showing with 20 goals and 31 assists in 58 games.
Hameenaho has also represented Finland on the international stage, including at the IIHF World Junior Championship.
The Devils are currently sitting seventh in the Metropolitan Division with a 24-22-2 record. They are looking to bounce back from their recent loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. The team hopes that Hameenaho's addition to the lineup will provide a spark as they push for a playoff spot. Hameenaho is not expected to be on any special teams units.
