Why Lenni Hämeenaho Is Starting The Season In The AHL

A second-round draft pick in 2023, the organization showed patience with Hämeenaho as he adjusted to the pros in North America, delaying his NHL debut until mid-January.

After that night, the Finnish winger played 33 NHL games, scoring two goals and finishing his rookie season with eight points.

After the season ended, Hämeenaho met Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe for his exit interview, and the message from coach to player was simple: It would be a big mistake to leave and make any assumptions about what his future looks like.