okay!

I’d like to see them in AHL for a bit and give Boqvist and Clarke a try first. But if they make it, let’s roll.

Yup, that seems the better move ... guessing its more in line with what this management team would do as well.

There's also Johnsson... everyone seems to have written him off, but he's still a guy who has appeared in 175 NHL games + a few playoff appearances. You have to figure he sees plenty of ice time, as well, at least to showcase him.
Last thing you want is Holtz or Mercer sitting in NHL, even for a game, to accommodate minutes elsewhere.

I think both will be regulars by end of season.
But they should get a month or two in Utica (who doesn't like Utica?).

But it sounds like Mercer has pretty good shot at making team as 3C.

Zacha-Mercer-Kuokkanen

Would like that line as well

Local press sure is talking him up ...

Like it too. Could be a reality. Seeing as (1) Lindy was playing Johnsson with Hischier and Bratt, and (2) how he used Zajac (an experienced center) as a wing when Sharangovich played center.

Johnsson - Hischier - Bratt
Tatar - Hughes - Sharangovich
Zacha - Mercer - Kuokkanen
Wood - McLeod - [tbd]

Speaking of Sharangovich, did you all see that goal today? Wow.

Just beautiful. 🚨: Sharangovich 3-1, Team Red#NJDevils | @InvestorsBank pic.twitter.com/H2NJlnF8tr

— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) September 28, 2021