Devils’ 3 Most Underrated Players Heading Into 2026-27

The New Jersey Devils possess no shortage of star power. Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, Luke Hughes, and Timo Meier understandably receive most of the attention whenever the team is discussed. However, every successful NHL team relies on players who quietly make significant contributions without receiving the same level of recognition.

As the Devils look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025-26 season and return to playoff contention for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign, several players on the roster deserve more appreciation for what they bring to the lineup. Whether it’s providing depth scoring, playing reliable defensive minutes, or offering physical leadership, these players often impact games in ways that don’t always show up on highlight reels.

Here are the three most underrated players currently on the Devils’ roster.

Cody Glass: A Valuable Depth Center

When the Devils acquired Cody Glass, expectations were relatively modest. The 2017 sixth-overall pick had struggled to establish himself as a consistent NHL contributor during previous stops with the Vegas Golden Knights, Nashville Predators, and Pittsburgh Penguins. However, Glass quietly became one of New Jersey’s most dependable depth forwards during the 2025-26 season.

Glass finished the season with 26 points (19 goals, seven assists) in 70 games played, providing much-needed secondary scoring for a team that often struggled to generate offense beyond its top players. His 19 goals ranked among the best totals from the Devils’ bottom-six forwards and demonstrated his ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

What makes Glass particularly valuable is his versatility. Throughout the season, he was utilized in a variety of situations, playing center on the third line while also moving up and down the lineup when injuries struck. His responsible two-way game allowed the coaching staff to trust him against quality competition.

Glass also developed strong chemistry with players such as Connor Brown and Arseny Gritsyuk, helping stabilize New Jersey’s middle-six forward group. Glass has evolved into exactly the type of player winning teams need: reliable, adaptable, and capable of chipping in offensively when called upon.

For a Devils team that frequently struggled to get consistent production from its depth forwards, Glass was a reliable contributor throughout the season. If he can remain healthy heading into the 2026-27 campaign, there’s a strong chance he could put together the best season of his career and further establish himself as a key piece of New Jersey’s lineup.

Arseny Gritsyuk’s Impressive Rookie Season

Much of the attention surrounding the Devils’ young core focuses on players such as Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec, but Arseny Gritsyuk quietly put together a promising first NHL season after arriving from the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

The Russian winger finished with 13 goals and 31 points in 66 games while adjusting to North American hockey. Those numbers may not jump off the page, but they represent a solid foundation for a player experiencing the challenges of his first NHL campaign.

What stood out most about Gritsyuk was the maturity of his overall game. He wasn’t simply an offensive specialist trying to find his footing; he consistently demonstrated strong defensive awareness, responsible positioning, and a willingness to compete in all three zones. Analysts and observers frequently highlighted his hockey IQ and two-way effectiveness throughout the season.

Gritsyuk also showed flashes of the offensive upside that made him such an intriguing prospect. His speed, quick release, and ability to create chances off the rush were evident throughout the season, and he spent time alongside several different linemates as the coaching staff searched for the ideal fit.

Perhaps most importantly, he continued to produce while navigating the challenges that often come with a rookie NHL season. Despite dealing with periods of inconsistency and injury setbacks — including a shoulder injury that required surgery and sidelined him for the final 16 games of the season — he remained an impactful contributor whenever he was in the lineup. His ability to remain effective even when the team struggled speaks volumes about his potential moving forward.

With another offseason to build strength and gain confidence, Gritsyuk could be poised for a significant breakout in 2026-27. If he takes the next step offensively, he may finally begin receiving the recognition he deserves across the league. Gritsyuk is a restricted free agent (RFA) this offseason, and general manager Sunny Mehta should certainly be making it a priority to sign him to a new contract.

Brenden Dillon’s Defensive Value

Defensemen who specialize in physical play and defensive responsibility rarely receive widespread praise, but Brenden Dillon remains one of the Devils’ most important veteran leaders.

Entering his second season with New Jersey, Dillon continued to serve as a stabilizing presence on the blue line throughout the 2025-26 campaign. While his offensive numbers were modest, recording 15 points in 82 games, his value extends far beyond offensive statistics.

Dillon regularly matched up against opposing top forwards, played difficult defensive-zone minutes, and provided a physical element that the Devils otherwise lacked on the back end. He led the team in penalty minutes while consistently bringing toughness and competitiveness every night. He also averaged 18 minutes of ice time per night, recorded 103 blocks, and led the team with 202 hits. His veteran leadership also proved critical for a defensive group that features several young players.

Beyond his physical play, Dillon’s willingness to block shots, battle along the boards, and protect teammates often sets the tone for the rest of the lineup. Those contributions rarely generate headlines, but they remain essential components of winning hockey.

As the Devils attempt to establish a stronger defensive identity under new management, players like Dillon become even more valuable. While fans often focus on offensive production when evaluating defensemen, Dillon’s impact can be seen in the difficult assignments he handles and the leadership he provides both on and off the ice.

Unsung Contributors Could Be Key to the Devils Success

The Devils’ success in 2026-27 will undoubtedly depend on their stars performing at a high level. However, teams don’t return to contention based solely on elite talent.

Players such as Glass, Gritsyuk, and Dillon provide the depth, reliability, and balance necessary to support New Jersey’s core. Each contributes in a different way, whether through secondary scoring, defensive responsibility, or veteran leadership.

While they may not generate the same attention as the team’s biggest names, their importance should not be overlooked. If the Devils are going to rebound and re-establish themselves as a playoff contender, these underrated contributors will likely play a major role in making that happen.