New Jersey Devils forward prospect Graeme Clarke’s first NHL stint didn’t last very long. Clarke made his NHL debut on Jan. 6th against the Vancouver Canucks. The Devils returned Clarke to the American Hockey League. On Wednesday, Clarke was named an AHL All-Star.
During his NHL debut, Clarke took 10 shifts, a total of 9:32 of time on ice. By the end of the 6-4 loss to Vancouver, the Devils prospect totaled one hit and was a plus-1. The Devils recalled Clarke in the midst of a plethora of injuries. However, he’s just not quite ready.
Albeit, he’s also not that far off. The first-time AHL All-Star has clearly proven he’s fit for the North American professional game. Perhaps just not at its highest level just yet.
In 27 games with the Utica Comets this season, Clarke leads the team in goals (11) and is second in points (21) to Xavier Parent (23).
It’s certainly a strong encore for Clarke. The 22-year-old forward led the Comets in 2022-23 in both goals (25) and points (58) through 68 AHL games. He scored five more goals than the next leading scorer and 17 more points than the next-best point collector in Utica.
Clarke’s All-Star nomination is the first of his professional career.
Clarke’s brother, Brandt Clarke, was recalled from the Ontario Reign to the Los Angeles Kings on the same day that Graeme received the call to the Devils. The brothers are in sync again, as Brandt has been chosen to represent the Reign as their All-Star. Therefore, the brothers will face off in the All-Star competition.
More must-reads: