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New Jersey Devils Facing Difficult Ultimatum With Newly-Signed Top Prospect: May Leave NHL Mid-Season

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Tom Banks | Last updated Aug 1, 2025 11:54 AM ET

The Devils are excited about the arrival of Arseny Gritsyuk, but an out-clause in his contract could see him return to the KHL rather quickly.

The New Jersey Devils used a fifth round pick on Arseny Gritsyuk back in the 2019 NHL Draft, and now, the talented young prospect is finally on his way to North America and the National Hockey League after spending the past five seasons as a full time KHLer.

There's plenty of excitement around the 24-year old that had 44 points in 49 games in the KHL with SKA St. Peterburg a year ago, but even before his arrival, he has revealed a shock clause in his contract.

According to Gritsyuk, there's a clause in his contract that could see him return to the KHL at any point this season, which is not something that Devils fans will want to hear amidst the excitement of his arrival.

In a recent interview, the young star admitted that he's open to playing in the AHL, but for 'no more than two or three months', and it's perhaps this attitude that may see him back in Russia sooner, rather than later.

'Yes, there is such a point. If it doesn't work out, I can come back... I understand that you are talking about the AHL. I am ready to endure it for some time, but two or three months, no more.'

Despite this statement, there's plenty of excitement for the 24-year old that stands 6-foot-0 and weighs 194 pounds, as he has the physical ability and the skills to translate to the NHL, but as his rookie season approaches, all eyes are on how the Devils handle this very delicate situation.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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