Keefe on Devils’ Silaev: What’s Real, and What Needs Work

New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe evaluated 20-year-old defenseman Anton Silaev following his appearances in two preseason games. Silaev played in a 2-1 victory over the New York Islanders at Prudential Center and a 4-3 shootout defeat against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.

Keefe praised the 6-foot-7 defenseman for his skating range, reach, and defensive recovery ability when ending plays. However, Keefe noted that the former KHL player must adjust to NHL pace and needs to move the puck quicker rather than holding onto it too long.