Apr 9, 2016; Newark, NJ, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Steven Santini (38) skates during the first period of their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

New Jersey Devils D Steven Santini: Gauging First Year Expectations for World Hockey Championship Participant

New Jersey Devils D Steven Santini took part in the World Hockey Championships in May representing Team USA. A team filled with top college prospects, which included the likes of Kyle Connor, J.T. Compher, Hudson Fasching, Tyler Motte (among others), the group held their own against NHL quality talent.

One of the unsung heroes of the American squad was Steven Santini. More of a defensive-minded player, Santini isn’t flashy and doesn’t stand out. He quietly goes about his business effectively shutting down the opposition. He is long-term projected to chew up big minutes in the top four, and might be able to start doing so as a rookie in year one.

To gauge the future for New Jersey Devils D Steven Santini, we need to explore the Devils defensive situation.

Their blue line got a whole lot thinner following the trade to acquire Taylor Hall.

The loss of Adam Larsson will sting initially, but the Devils must believe in their young blue line to make such a sacrifice.

New Jersey Devils Current Depth Chart

LH

Andy Greene

John Moore

Jon Merrill

Seth Halgeson

Yohann Auvitu

RH

Damon Severson

Ben Lovejoy

Steven Santini

Vojtech Mozik

There’s obvious room for movement as training camp unfolds, but as you can see, the Devils have reason to feel comfortable with their depth.

It’s not to say that New Jersey won’t sign another free agent defenseman, or acquire one via trade, but if they believe D Steven Santini can step into a top four role, they may have everything they need already.

So what are realistic expectations for the 21-year-old Santini in year one?

Worst case scenario, he settles in on the bottom pairing and sees time in the press box/AHL.

While it might sound lofty, don’t be surprised if Steven Santini progressively earns more ice-time as the year goes on. He could easily settle in to the second pairing logging 18-20 minutes/night before the season ends.

Here’s a guy that will never be a spotlight player. In fact, he will likely struggle to receive Calder Trophy consideration based on his style of play. Make no mistake though, New Jersey Devils D Steven Santini will be a key player in helping the franchise get back over the hump to win another Stanley Cup.