Steven-Zalewski2

Straubing Tigers‘ 9th year center Steven Zalewski(15) will spend his 10th pro season, 3rd overall with the team, as he signs another extension to stay despite scoring only 5 goals and 12 assists in 50 DEL games with a -10 rating.

After putting up a career high 30 assists with Albany Devils in 2012/2013, he left for his first stint overseas joining Lukko of Liiga.

He only had 6 goals and 5 assists in 31 contests but seemed to spring to life some in the playoffs grabbing another goal and 5 more assists.

The 5’11” 190 lbs. pivot stayed in Finland for another season signing with Ilves but seemed to continue struggle a bit to put up points.

Leaving for his debut tour of Germany he regained that scoring punch potting 17 goals and 23 assists for 40 points with a +6.

He’s set to turn 31-years old before the start of next season but has obviously been a good, veteran leader for the group, so may have found a good spot to stay before he hangs up the skates.

More on this Player

Steve Zalewski(15) New Jersey Devils

steven-zalewski5

Originally a San Jose Sharks‘ 5th round pick in the 2004 draft (#153 overall) center Steve Zalewski(15) was dished to New Jersey Devils in the last year of his entry level contract in a four player trade. His numbers had dipped that season to the point where he fell from the depth chart.

He played 3 NHL games in the 2009/2010 season but failed to register a point.

As soon as he got to the DevilsAHL affiliate in Albany he regained his scoring touch and that continued into 2011/2012.

For his efforts he received his 1st recall and was dropped off by the team bus at a New Jersey truck stop to join the Devils for their game against Boston at the Prudential Center but only took warm-ups and was a healthy scratch.

He made his debut a couple of nights later, a 5-2 win for the team. No telling how long he’ll stay up in the NHL but if they keep winning, look for him to become a more permanent part of their lineup.

Steven Zalewski (15) New Jersey Devils

Steven-Zalewski3

Minor league acquisition, center Steven Zalewski(15) recently accepted his qualifying offer and re-signed with New Jersey for another one-year, two-way contract.

He’s very likely to spend most of his playing time in the AHL with Albany but if he can start putting up points like he did a couple of seasons ago could play a few games in the NHL in ’11/’12.