TAKEAWAYS:

• Noesen is filled with excitement to come back to the New Jersey Devils.
• During their initial two seasons in the NHL, Noesen recalls his memories of Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt.
• Noesen explains how he has witnessed the development of the two stars in New Jersey.

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Stefan Noesen bid farewell to his New Jersey Devils jersey after the 2018-19 NHL season, marking the end of an era. At the age of 25, he had already amassed an impressive 159 games on his record. With his fiancé, Alyson, by his side, Stefan eagerly anticipated embarking on the next exciting chapter of his life.

In addition, he had the company of two young NHL teammates, Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt, who were still new to the league. He humorously referred to them as mere “infants,” just starting to gain experience.

Noesen, speaking from his Texas home, described them as young puppies who were mere infants when he was around. He reminisced about witnessing their growth from newborns entering the League, despite himself being relatively young as well. However, it was evident that they were significantly younger than him.

After not receiving a qualifying offer from the team, Noesen embarked on a personal journey that led him to his current position. He decided to return to the AHL and achieved success by winning the Calder Cup. Through signing tryout contracts, he persevered and eventually found a suitable opportunity in Carolina. There, he had a remarkable career-year, playing in 81 games and recording 14 goals and 23 assists. In his personal life, Noesen is happily married to Alyson, and together they have two children: daughter Leighton and son Liam.

He’s come into his own.

He has observed his “newborn” teammates grow from a distance. As Noesen readies himself for his second time with the Devils, he realizes that only three players from his previous tenure are still on the team: Hischier, Bratt, and briefly Nathan Bastian, who played seven games during Noesen’s last year in Jersey.

Hischier has assumed the role of captain, achieving the impressive milestone of scoring 30 goals. Furthermore, he has proven himself by completing an outstanding 80-point season, solidifying his position as one of the league’s premier two-way players. Bratt, on the other hand, has showcased remarkable consistency, amassing two 70-plus point seasons and one remarkable 80-plus point season. Together, they have formed an integral part of the franchise’s foundational core.

Noesen expressed that there is hardly any surprise in their development given that it was evident right from the beginning.

In the past, Jesper was an incredibly talented and energetic skater. His skills were so impressive that during his first year, many people were in awe of him and wondered who he was. His rapid progress from that time until now has been truly remarkable to witness.

“We had always anticipated Nico becoming an exceptional player, especially as the first overall pick, assuming such a significant role at an early stage. It was remarkable how he had someone like (Taylor) Hall to mentor him,” he added. “Now, Nico has embraced a whole new level of leadership. Though not very vocal, his passion and dedication are evident. He’s an incredible individual, and even when we compete against each other, there’s a profound mutual respect.”

Since their early days playing together at Prudential Center, they have individually completed a full circle in their own unique paths. Now, they will reunite, with age and wisdom on their side, and possibly even better equipped.

It is truly amazing to witness their personal growth and transformation, as they discover their true selves. This sincerely earns my respect.

Since their time as teammates in 2019, the objective remains unaltered: to triumph in Jersey. Noesen’s return couldn’t have been timed better as they strive for victory.

He expressed his excitement about his return, stating that being a Devils fan at this time is truly exhilarating.