Last summer, people didn't expect much out of Johnathan Kovacevic. Fast-forward a year, and he has transformed himself into one of the best defensive-minded defensemen on the roster. He has exceeded expectations and earned himself a nice contract extension from the New Jersey Devils. Trading for him was a smart move by Tom Fitzgerald.

Interview soundbite: Johnathan Kovacevic

0:00 Kovacevic's 2024-25 season

12:10 Kovacevic's injury update

20:56 Kovacevic reflects on the season

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I have been focusing on a lot of young talent for the New Jersey Devils this week. Cole Brown is committed to play at Notre Dame after a strong showing in the OHL. Jakub Malek is another good goalie in the system. He will be a solid contributor for the Utica Comets. Speaking of which, you will also hear from Comets head coach, Ryan Parent.

Interview soundbites: Jakub Malek, Cole Brown, and Ryan Parent (Courtesy New Jersey Devils)

0:00 Jakub Malek at dev camp

12:02 Cole Brown at dev camp

16:19 Comets HC Ryan Parent

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For your next listen, check out the Locked On NHL podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

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Gametime: Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins!

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k: Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required.

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Simon Nemec and Seamus Casey are two promising young defensemen for the New Jersey Devils. Both had standout moments this past season. Devils fans should be eager about their futures. However, with the players ahead of them, understanding what's next in their development is quite intriguing.

Interview soundbites: Simon Nemec and Seamus Casey

0:00 Simon Nemec's 2024-25 season

10:56 Seamus Casey's 2024-25 season

20:20 What's next for them?

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For your next listen, check out the Locked On NHL podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Monarch Money: Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

Wonderful Pistachios: Get snackin’ and get crackin’ with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more!

Gametime: Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel: Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins!

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k: Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required.

Upwork: Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)