Observations:

July 2017 – After spending last year with the Devils' organization, most of it at AHL Albany, Edmonton has inked Auvitu to a one-year contract. Kevin Wickersham

May 2017 – In such a difficult year for New Jersey featuring so many prospects it was a bit surprising Auvitu didn't return after his December Albany assignment. Following an initially strong NHL start, his AHL offensive totals (five goals, eight assists in 29 games, 2.83 shots-per-game average) weren't bad, but his overall play did decline somewhat. Missing several weeks with a lower-body injury didn't help. A regular healthy scratch near year's end, the restricted free agent may consider a return to France. – Kevin Wickersham

December 2016 – In 23 games with New Jersey during which he logged a good amount of ice time (on average 16:10 minutes per game, with 2:07 on the power play), he compiled two goals, two assists, a plus-two rating, and 50 shots. The French blueliner was then assigned to the AHL's Albany squad. While starting the NHL season strong, Auvitu struggled a bit of late and was a healthy scratch for several recent contests. The move to Albany should ensure that he returns to playing significant minutes and remains sharp should a move back up to the big club occur. Kevin Wickersham

October 2016 – The unheralded free-agent signing made the Devils out of camp and is making an impression during the regular season. Auvitu opens the season as the lone defenseman on the Devils’ power play, which should be much improved over last year. He's a good skater with a good shot and is adept at moving the puck. He's already notched an assist in his first two games and has taken six shots on goal. He is still learning and adjusting to the defensive side of the game but his strength is his ability to move the puck. If he continues to run on the top power-play unit, he might end up being one of the bigger surprises of this season. Trevor Behrends

May 2016 – Auvitu signed as a free agent with the New Jersey Devils in May. He had an impressive season with HIFK in Liiga, scoring 21 points in regular season and 13 in the playoff.  He was named the best defenseman in the league. Auvitu is a very good skater who can rush the puck up the ice effectively thanks to his speed, agility and solid puck handling ability. He's got powerful strides that allow him to reach top speed quickly. He has a quick point shot and good offensive instincts. Auvitu improved quite a bit defensively by making better reads and improving his puck management in the defensive zone. He was often the most reliable HIFK defenseman and consistently able to contribute at both ends of the rink. Marco Bombino

Fantasy Outlook: B

Auvitu is already quarterbacking the power play and with virtually no competition in sight for the job should be a productive offensive defenseman.

Footage:

Yohann Auvitu scores a shootout goal while playing for JYP in Liiga.

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