Devane Brings Toughness, Physicality To San Diego Lineup

Feb 16, 2021

By AJ Manderichio/SanDiegoGulls.com

You can’t help but notice Jamie Devane.

The left wing, who signed a professional tryout (PTO) with San Diego earlier today, towers over most of his teammates. At 6’5” and 231 pounds, he’s a noticeable presence on the ice.

“I try to play hard every night, bring a level of toughness and physicality to the team and provide leadership,” Devane said following today’s practice, his first with the team.

The physical element of his game is ever present, as the Mississauga, ON led the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins with 81 penalty minutes last year. Over his 340 American Hockey League games, Devane amassed 668 penalty minutes. 

He’s not all toughness – the rugged left wing can provide offense in his role. He’s collected 24 goals and 56 points over his AHL career.

Devane spent three previous seasons in the Pacific Division, playing for the Stockton Heat during the 2016-17 season and the Ontario Reign from 2017-19. 

“Since I've been here, it's been top notch,” he said. “I've played against the Gulls for a long time. I recognize a lot of guys - and some guys I've played with before, like (Andrew) Agozzino and (Sam) Carrick. So far, so good."

He spent the long offseason back in Toronto, where he incorporated more outdoor running into his offseason routine. With gyms opening and closing due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Devane admitted his usual training needed to adapt to an ever-shifting landscape.

Now back with a team, he’s working hard to make sure he’s game ready.

“I'm looking at it like coming back from an injury, I haven't played in so long,” he said. “You just kind of have to get back up to speed as fast as you can, learning the systems and stuff and get in game shape. You have to replicate it as best in practice as you can so come game time, you're ready.”