Jesper Bratt Bio
Jesper Bratt is a Swedish professional ice hockey player who serves as a forward and alternate captain for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on 30 July 1998 in Stockholm, Sweden, Bratt was drafted by the Devils in the sixth round, 162nd overall, during the 2016 NHL entry draft. He made his NHL debut the following season and has since become a key contributor for the franchise. Bratt has also represented Sweden at both the junior and senior international levels.
Early Life and Background
Jesper Bratt grew up in Stockholm, Sweden, where he developed his passion for hockey at a young age. He began his professional career in Sweden, playing for AIK in HockeyAllsvenskan. During his time with AIK, Bratt appeared in 48 games and recorded 17 points, demonstrating his potential as a scoring forward. His performances caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection in the 2016 NHL draft.
Path to the NHL
After being drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 2016, Bratt continued his development in Sweden before signing his first NHL contract. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Devils on 13 May 2017, impressing Devils general manager Ray Shero during the 2017 under-20 Summer Showcase in Plymouth, Michigan. Initially, Bratt was expected to be loaned to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), who owned his North American junior rights after selecting him in the 2017 CHL Import Draft.
Bratt committed to play for the Knights in August 2017 and participated in one preseason game. However, he continued to impress during Devils training camp and earned a spot on the opening night roster for the 2017-18 NHL season. He never played a regular season game for the Knights, marking a rapid ascent from junior hockey to the NHL.
Jesper Bratt Career
Early Career (2017-2019)
Bratt made an immediate impact in his NHL debut, scoring two points in his first game. He recorded a power play goal and a shorthanded assist in a 4-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. This performance made Bratt the lowest-drafted player to debut in the NHL as a teenager since Roman Vopat and Richard Zedník debuted during the 1994-95 NHL season.
Throughout his rookie season, Bratt played significant minutes alongside Taylor Hall and Nico Hischier on the Devils’ first line. By the All-Star break, he had accumulated 10 goals and 30 points. Although the Devils’ trade deadline acquisition of Patrick Maroon from the Edmonton Oilers led to decreased opportunities for Bratt, who scored only one goal following the All-Star break, he finished his rookie campaign with 13 goals and 22 assists for a total of 35 points in 74 games played.
New Jersey Devils Breakthrough (2019-2023)
The 2018-19 season presented challenges for Bratt, who fractured his jaw during practice in early October. The injury caused him to miss the first 13 games of the season. Despite the setback, Bratt continued to develop his game alongside Nico Hischier. He finished the 2018-19 season with 8 goals and 25 assists for 33 points in 51 games played.
Bratt’s career continued to progress with the Devils. On 10 January 2021, he signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract, reflecting his growing importance to the team. A significant milestone came on 19 March 2023, when Bratt recorded his first NHL hat trick in a 5-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. This achievement highlighted his evolution into an elite scoring threat in the league.
New Jersey Devils Era (2023-Present)
On 15 June 2023, the Devils re-signed Bratt to an eight-year, $63 million contract, securing their core forward for the long term. The deal demonstrated the organization’s commitment to building around Bratt as a franchise cornerstone. Following the contract extension, Bratt was named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in January 2024, receiving the recognition after an injury to teammate Jack Hughes opened a spot on the roster.
Throughout his tenure with the Devils, Bratt has developed into one of the team’s most consistent offensive contributors. His ability to play both wings and his hockey intelligence have made him a versatile asset in coach Pete DeBoer’s system. Bratt’s partnership with players like Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes has formed the backbone of the Devils’ forward group.
Driving Style and Strengths
Bratt is known for his exceptional hockey IQ, speed, and playmaking ability. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches, he compensates for his smaller frame with quickness and elusiveness. His ability to create scoring chances for teammates while also possessing a reliable shot makes him a dual-threat offensive player. Bratt’s left-handed shot and versatility allow him to play either wing position effectively.
Notable Events and Milestones
Bratt’s career has been marked by steady progression and memorable moments. His first NHL game performance established him as a player to watch, while his first career hat trick against the Tampa Bay Lightning served as a defining moment. Being selected to the NHL All-Star Game in 2024 provided national recognition of his contributions. His journey from a sixth-round draft pick to a core player on a franchise undergoing a rebuild showcases his determination and skill development.
Jesper Bratt Career Wins
Throughout his NHL career, Bratt has established himself as a reliable scoring threat for the New Jersey Devils. His consistency year-over-year has made him one of the team’s most important players.
NHL Highlights
Bratt’s most notable individual achievement in the NHL came on 19 March 2023, when he recorded his first career hat trick against the Tampa Bay Lightning in a 5-2 victory. His rookie season performance of 35 points in 74 games demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level immediately. Bratt has also appeared in the NHL All-Star Game, representing the Devils and the Eastern Conference.
International Wins
On the international stage, Bratt represented Sweden at the 2019 World Championship. He was also named to Sweden’s team for the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, scheduled to take place between 12 and 20 February 2025, continuing his involvement with the Swedish national program.
Jesper Bratt Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Public information regarding Jesper Bratt’s family background and racing lineage is not extensively documented in available sources.
Personal Life
Jesper Bratt continues his professional hockey career with the New Jersey Devils. Born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden, he began his professional journey in Swedish hockey before transitioning to North America. Bratt has established himself as a professional athlete, securing long-term stability with his eight-year contract extension.
2025 Season Performance
The 2024-25 NHL season represents another chapter in Bratt’s development with the New Jersey Devils. Coming off his All-Star selection and new long-term contract, Bratt enters the season as one of the team’s veteran presences. The Devils continue to build around their core group of Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Jack Hughes as they aim for playoff contention in the Eastern Conference.
Bratt’s international commitment to the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025 will provide him with an opportunity to represent Sweden against the world’s best players. The tournament, featuring teams from the United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, offers Bratt a chance to showcase his abilities on a global stage. His performance during the tournament could further enhance his reputation as one of the NHL’s rising stars.
The Devils’ coaching staff will continue to rely on Bratt’s offensive instincts and versatility as the season progresses. His chemistry with linemates and ability to contribute in all situations make him a key component of the team’s strategic plans. With the team trending upward and Bratt in the prime of his career, the 2025 season holds significant promise for both the player and the franchise.