slovak defenseman Šimon nemec has been making waves in the AHL,delivering a standout performance that has hockey fans buzzing. In a recent game against the hartford Wolf Pack, Nemec showcased his offensive prowess, contributing two goals and three assists to lead the Utica Comets to a decisive 7-3 victory. This marked his first-ever five-point game in the AHL, a meaningful milestone for the 20-year-old, who has now played 101 games in the league.
Nemec’s performance earned him the title of the game’s first star, as he also recorded four shots on goal and finished with a +3 rating. His previous career-high in the AHL was a four-point game (2 goals, 2 assists) back on November 11, 2023, during a 6-0 win against Rochester. This latest achievement underscores his growing impact on the ice.
The young defenseman wasted no time making his presence felt against Hartford. In the first period, he set up Nolan Foote for a goal, giving Utica an early 2-0 lead. Nemec then scored the game-winning goal in the second period, breaking a 4-3 deadlock. He capped off his stellar night with another goal in the third period and added secondary assists on utica’s final two goals, sealing the 7-3 victory.
This season, Nemec has tallied 5 goals and 11 assists in 23 games, along with a +3 rating and 10 penalty minutes. While his transition from the NHL to the AHL was initially rocky,he has since found his rhythm,scoring consistently and proving his value to the Comets. Over his last nine games, he has racked up 5 goals and 7 assists, including three multi-point performances.
Nemec began the 2024-25 season with the New Jersey Devils but struggled to make an impact, recording just one assist in nine games. Head coach Sheldon Keefe made the decision to reassign him to the AHL, citing the need for more game experience and betterment in his defensive play. Despite the setback, Nemec has embraced the opportunity to refine his skills in Utica.
“It’s already better from the hockey side.I didn’t have an ideal period, probably the worst in my career.It’s over, I’m playing my hockey. I do the things I know,” Nemec said in a recent interview. “It’s not in the league I’d like to be in, but it’s better.”
Reflecting on his recent success, Nemec added, “I needed it. I confirmed to myself that I didn’t forget it and I can play hockey.Unfortunately, the situation was not ideal before.”
Despite Nemec’s resurgence, the Utica Comets continue to struggle in the AHL North Division, sitting in last place and trailing Belleville by 11 points. In the Eastern Conference, only Bridgeport ranks below Utica, with four fewer points. Though, Nemec’s contributions offer a glimmer of hope for the team as they look to climb the standings.
As Nemec continues to develop his game, his recent performances suggest that he is on the right track to reclaiming his spot in the NHL. For now, fans of the Utica Comets can enjoy watching one of the league’s moast promising young defensemen shine on the ice.
New Jersey Devils Eye roster Enhancements Amid Strong Season
The New Jersey Devils are riding high this season, currently sitting as the second-best team in the Eastern Conference. with a defense that’s performing exceptionally well, the team’s management is reportedly looking to bolster their roster further. According to ESPN analyst Kevin Weekes, the Devils are exploring options to add more scoring power and deepen their defensive lineup before the transfer deadline.
@NJDevils have had a really good season to date, I’m told they’re interested in potentially adding more scoring and depth on D. #njdevils #HockeyX
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) January 15, 2025
While the team’s current defensive unit has been a key factor in their success, Weekes suggests that the Devils are considering adding another player to their backline. This move, however, could complicate the return of a certain German player to the first team. During his rookie season in the NHL, this player tallied 19 points in 60 games, but his path back to the professional league now seems uncertain.
Earlier this year, the devils’ defensive lineup featured rookie Seamus Casey in the third pairing. Though, with the return of Brett Pesce and Luke Hughes from injury, the young duo of Nemec and Casey was relegated to the farm team. This shift has sparked speculation about the German player’s future with the organization,as his opportunities to rejoin the main roster appear increasingly limited.
If the Devils proceed with acquiring another defender, it could effectively close the door on the German player’s return. Over the past few months, rumors have swirled about potential replacements, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his role with the team.
As the transfer deadline approaches, the Devils’ management faces critical decisions. Strengthening their roster could solidify their position as a top contender, but it may also mean making tough choices about existing players. fans will be watching closely to see how the team balances immediate success with long-term advancement.
What is the key to Šimon Nemec’s recent resurgence in performance?
Interview with Šimon Nemec: Rising Star of the Utica Comets
By Archyde News Editor
Archyde: Šimon, thank you for joining us today. You’ve been making headlines recently with your incredible performance against the Hartford Wolf Pack, where you recorded two goals and three assists. How does it feel to have your first five-point game in the AHL?
Šimon Nemec: Thank you for having me. It feels amazing, honestly. It’s a milestone I’ve been working toward, and to achieve it in such a decisive win for the team makes it even more special. I’ve been focusing on improving every aspect of my game, and it’s rewarding to see the results on the ice.
archyde: You mentioned focusing on improvement. Earlier this season, you were with the New Jersey Devils but were reassigned to the AHL. How did you handle that transition, and what has it been like playing in Utica?
Šimon nemec: It was definitely a challenging period for me. I started the season with the Devils, but things didn’t go as planned. I wasn’t performing at the level I knew I was capable of, and the coaching staff felt I needed more game experience. Coming to Utica was an prospect to reset and focus on my development. It’s not the league I wanted to be in, but it’s been a great environment to grow and refine my skills.
Archyde: Your recent performances suggest you’ve found your rhythm. Over the last nine games, you’ve tallied five goals and seven assists. What’s been the key to your resurgence?
Šimon Nemec: I think it’s a combination of confidence and hard work. When I first came to Utica, I was still adjusting, but I’ve been able to play my game—focusing on both offence and defense. The coaching staff and my teammates have been incredibly supportive, which has helped me settle in and contribute more consistently.
Archyde: In the game against Hartford, you not only scored the game-winning goal but also set up key plays for your teammates. How do you balance being an offensive threat while maintaining your responsibilities as a defenseman?
Šimon nemec: It’s all about reading the game and knowing when to take risks. As a defenseman, my primary job is to protect our net, but I also want to create opportunities for my team. Against Hartford, I saw chances to jump into the play and trusted my instincts. It’s a balance, but when it works, it’s a great feeling.
Archyde: Your team, the Utica Comets, has been struggling in the standings this season. How do you stay motivated, and what do you think the team needs to turn things around?
Šimon Nemec: It’s tough when the results aren’t there, but we’re a tight-knit group, and we believe in each other. We’ve been working hard in practice and focusing on improving our game one shift at a time. I think if we keep pushing and stay consistent, we can start climbing the standings.
Archyde: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the rest of the season, both personally and for the team?
Šimon Nemec: Personally, I want to keep improving and contributing to the team’s success. I’d love to earn another shot in the NHL, but for now, my focus is on helping Utica win games. As a team, we need to build on our recent performances and start stringing together some wins. It’s a process, but I believe we have the talent and determination to make it happen.
Archyde: what message would you like to share with your fans and supporters who have been following your journey?
Šimon Nemec: I just want to say thank you for the support. It means a lot to me, especially during the tougher times. I’m working hard every day to become the best player I can be, and I hope to make you all proud.
Archyde: Šimon, thank you for your time and insights. we wish you and the Utica Comets continued success this season.
Šimon Nemec: Thank you!
End of Interview
Šimon Nemec’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. As he continues to shine in the AHL,hockey fans eagerly await his next chapter,whether in Utica or back in the NHL. stay tuned to Archyde for more updates on this rising star.
