Anton Silayev: The New Jersey Devils’ Towering Defenseman to Watch in 2025

Published: June 11, 2025

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Introduction: Who is Anton Silayev?

With every new NHL season, fans look for rookies who could change the landscape for their teams. For New Jersey Devils fans, Anton Silayev stands out as one of the most exciting defensive prospects entering 2025. Standing at a towering 6'7", Silayev joins the Devils with a reputation built on size, skill, and a promising future in North American hockey. Let's break down why he’s a defenseman to keep a close eye on this season.

Elite Size and Physical Presence

Few defensemen possess the natural size advantage that Anton Silayev brings. At 6-foot-7 and over 200 pounds, his reach and physical style instantly set him apart from his peers. Silayev’s rare combination of height and athleticism gives the Devils a potential shutdown defender capable of neutralizing rival top lines and protecting the crease with authority.

Skating and Two-Way Potential

Despite his imposing frame, Silayev is lauded for his smooth skating and ability to close gaps quickly. Scouts praise his defensive positioning and anticipation, which allow him to disrupt plays and transition the puck up ice efficiently. Though still refining his offensive instincts, his two-way reliability hints at a player with top-four NHL potential.

Development Path and Draft Profile

Anton Silayev has spent critical years developing in the KHL, Russia’s top professional league, gaining experience against seasoned competition before being selected by the New Jersey Devils in the 2024 NHL Draft. His strong performance abroad and rapid development make his NHL debut among the most anticipated storylines of the season for Devils fans.

Comparisons and Unique Attributes

Described as a “unicorn” among draft prospects, Silayev’s unique profile stems from his rare combination of size, mobility, and defensive acumen. While some critique his shooting for lacking accuracy, analysts believe that with NHL coaching and experience his all-around game could blossom. Comparisons to elite shutdown defenders in today’s NHL aren’t far-fetched—a testament to his potential impact for the Devils.

Strategic Tips: What to Watch For in Silayev’s Rookie Season

  • Monitor his adjustment to the NHL’s pace; his KHL experience should help ease the transition.
  • Watch for increased confidence as his role grows—look for improvements in puck movement and shot selection.
  • Expect the Devils to pair him with a veteran early, fostering mentorship and steady development.
  • Track his penalty-killing deployments; he could become a staple on the PK unit this season.
  • Note fan and analyst reactions, which can often predict shifts in his ice time and responsibilities.

Conclusion

Anton Silayev enters the 2025 NHL season as one of the most buzzed-about young blueliners in the league. If he lives up to his potential, the New Jersey Devils may have landed a cornerstone for their defense. Whether you’re a die-hard Devils fan or a hockey enthusiast, Silayev is a must-watch player whose development will be fascinating to follow all year long.