THREE THINGS: Boqvist's Rookie Adjustment

As the season remains on pause, we are taking a look back at the 2019-20 campaign and profiling Devils players and prospects.

Of course, every club would like to snap their fingers and in return have their rookie players ready to make an immediate impact on the roster at the NHL level. More often than not, however, a little seasoning in the American Hockey League is required before getting returns on investment. We are beginning to see the benefits of a prolonged stay in the minors for highly touted rookie Jesper Boqvist.

Here are three things to know about Boqvist's season so far as we look back.

1. FINDING HIS PLACE

With good reason, Devils fans were very excited about the prospects of Boqvist playing in the NHL this year. His offensive skill set and finesse with the puck are the things hockey fans enjoy to watch. And after spending a second-round pick in 2017 on him, the time has come to get an up close look at the young winger.

However, as is the norm, the battle for ice time and the rigors of the NHL season take their toll on young players like Boqvist after making the jump from Europe. The results have been just 35 games played this season and four goals.

He's averaged just 10:57 in ice time, 28th among all Devils players to lace up the skates this season.

But it's far too early to pass judgement. As he grows and develops, Boqvist will be awarded with more ice time and more opportunities alongside more skilled players. Patience is a virtue.

Patience paid off for Boqvist as he scored his first NHL goal on November 26 versus the Minnesota Wild.

2. FINDING HIS SCORING

Speaking of scoring...

One way to shorten the gap between development and arrival is to grow some confidence in the minors. Boqvist is well on his way to doing that.

He's played 19 games down in the AHL this season, scoring eight goals and adding three assists. But much like the start of his NHL career, it took time to get going in the minors too.

After scoring in his AHL season debut, the offense dried up for Boqvist. He went pointless in seven games before exploding for seven points in a three-game stretch beginning Valentine's Day.

A lot of players are streaky scorers to begin their professional careers. A key factor in Boqvist's impact at the NHL level early on will be his ability to contribute in other areas of the game when not scoring and then eventually finding consistency across the board. This is something that can be developed in the AHL over time or clicks with confidence and coaching.

3. SHOOTOUT SPECIALIST?

In the summer, we were impressed by Jesper Boqvist's top-shelf shootout tally in the club's rookie scrimmage.

Maybe it was a bit of foreshadowing as Boqvist would provide an impact in a skills competition that would matter. On November 5, in Winnipeg, Boqvist flashed some shootout skills again.

Boqvist broke in and rifled a shot in off the post to help the Devils secure the 2-1 victory over the Jets.