Jesper Bratt Bio
Jesper Bratt is a Swedish professional ice hockey player who plays as a forward for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on 30 July 1998 in Stockholm, Sweden, Bratt has developed into one of the most reliable scorers and playmakers on the Devils roster. He was selected by New Jersey in the sixth round, 162nd overall, of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft and has spent his entire North American career with the organization. Bratt also represents the Swedish national team in international competitions at both the junior and senior levels.
Early Life and Background
Jesper Bratt was born on 30 July 1998 in Stockholm, Sweden, where he grew up immersed in a strong hockey culture. He developed his early game in the Swedish junior system, eventually reaching the senior level with AIK of HockeyAllsvenskan, the country’s second-tier professional league. During the 2016-17 season, Bratt appeared in 48 games with AIK and recorded 17 points, a total that helped draw the attention of National Hockey League scouts. Standing 178 centimeters tall and weighing 79 kilograms, he relied on his skating, vision, and hockey sense rather than size to make an impact.
Path to Hockey
Bratt’s path to the NHL began in earnest when he was selected by the New Jersey Devils with the 162nd pick in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. He continued his development with AIK before accepting an invitation to the 2017 Under-20 Summer Showcase in Plymouth, Michigan, organized by the Devils. His performance there impressed Devils general manager Ray Shero and accelerated his timeline to the professional ranks. Following the showcase, Bratt signed a three-year entry-level contract with New Jersey on 13 May 2017, formally launching his North American career.
Jesper Bratt Career
Early Career (2017-2018)
Although the Devils held discussions to loan Bratt to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League, who owned his Canadian Hockey League import rights, he made their opening night roster for the 2017-18 NHL season. Bratt made an immediate impact, recording two points, including a power play goal and a shorthanded assist, in his first NHL game, a 4-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. He became the lowest-drafted teenager to debut in the NHL since Roman Vopat and Richard Zednik during the 1994-95 season. Playing significant minutes alongside Taylor Hall and Nico Hischier on the top line, Bratt finished his rookie season with 13 goals and 22 assists for 35 points in 74 games.
NHL Breakthrough (2018-2022)
Bratt’s sophomore season was disrupted when he fractured his jaw in early October 2018, causing him to miss the first 13 games of the 2018-19 campaign. He returned to play alongside Hischier and posted 8 goals and 25 assists for 33 points in 51 games, reinforcing his value as a playmaker. In January 2021, the Devils rewarded his steady production with a two-year, $5.5 million contract extension. On 19 March 2023, Bratt recorded his first NHL hat trick in a 5-2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning, an early highlight of what became a contract year.
New Jersey Devils Era (2023-Present)
On 15 June 2023, the Devils signed Bratt to a long-term eight-year, $63 million contract that runs through the 2030-31 season, cementing his role as a core piece of the franchise. He was named to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in January 2024 as a replacement for the injured Jack Hughes, earning recognition as one of the league’s top performers that season. Bratt has continued to serve as a primary offensive driver for the Devils, anchoring top-six forward lines and contributing in all situations.
Driving Style and Strengths
Bratt is widely regarded as a cerebral, detail-oriented forward whose game is built on elite skating, smooth puck handling, and high-level hockey intelligence. He excels at generating chances through precise passing and is comfortable on both the power play and the penalty kill. His ability to read plays, find soft ice, and create space for linemates has made him a reliable top-line contributor.
Notable Events and Milestones
Bratt’s NHL debut in October 2017, his first NHL hat trick against Tampa Bay in March 2023, and his invitation to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game stand as signature moments of his career. His long-term contract extension in June 2023 marked a defining vote of confidence from the Devils organization.
Jesper Bratt Career Wins
While Jesper Bratt’s primary statistical achievements are measured in goals, assists, and points rather than trophies, his career has been marked by consistent offensive production since his rookie year. His standout seasons have produced point-per-game or near point-per-game paces, and he has earned individual recognition through NHL All-Star selection.
NHL Highlights
Bratt’s NHL journey includes a 35-point rookie season in 2017-18, a 33-point output in only 51 games during 2018-19, and a 2022-23 campaign that featured his first career hat trick. His invitation to the 2024 All-Star Game confirmed his standing among the league’s top forwards, and his long-term contract extension reflected his value as a franchise cornerstone.
Other Wins and Performances
Bratt represented Sweden at the 2019 IIHF World Championship in Slovakia, gaining experience against top international competition. He was also named to Sweden’s roster for the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, which took place from 12 to 20 February 2025.
Jesper Bratt Family
Personal Life
Jesper Bratt keeps much of his personal life private, and detailed information about his family and relationships is not publicly confirmed. He was born and raised in Stockholm, Sweden, and continues to be identified closely with his Swedish roots and his long-term commitment to the New Jersey Devils.
2025 Season Performance
Heading into the 2025 season, Jesper Bratt remains a centerpiece of the New Jersey Devils’ forward group, anchoring the team’s top-six and special teams units. The Devils entered 2025 in pursuit of a deeper playoff run, and Bratt’s playmaking and goal-scoring touch were central to those ambitions. His international experience, including representing Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025, provided additional momentum heading into the spring schedule.
Bratt’s contract, which runs through 2031, gives the Devils long-term stability and signals the organization’s belief in his continued growth as a leader. With established chemistry alongside fellow forwards and a defined role on the power play, Bratt is positioned to remain one of New Jersey’s most influential players. His combination of experience, skill, and consistency makes the 2025 season another important chapter in his ongoing development as an elite NHL forward.