The Devils show some teeth!

It was trade deadline and the New Jersey Devils were sitting on top of the league standings. Was it expected at the beginning of the season? I guess not. Sure, the Devils hoped to be competitive but if you ask me I think they were more in retool mode with the plan to be in the mix for the 2022-2023 season. Not convinced? They traded Jack Roslovic after the first game! At that time, the word was that GM MatsLP was planning for the Seattle expansion and that this would be the main focus this year. Then, they loose their first 4 games… The lack of leadership of that squad was pointed out and fans were wondering if MatsLP would initiate a rebuilding process.

Then the Devils shown some teeth!

Slowly but surely, the Devils got back on track and began to turn heads around the league. The dynamic Barkov-Ehlers duo leaded the charge and for mysterious reasons Dylan Larkin, Devon Toews and Jacob Markstrom became way better after the Allstar game break…

Which bring us to the trade deadline, where the Devils were expected to be on the buyer side. And they did buy!

First, MatsLP sparks trade talks with fellow gm Souche. The later made clear that he was shopping RHL goal scoring leader Alexander Radulov. The Tasmanian devil is red hot this year scoring 40 goals and 42 assists in 64 GP. The NJD Gm made his mind quick, he was the guy. One would also point out that « Radu », is a fan favorite in Quebec City (where Mats studied and worked before moving to Newark) because of his QMJHL humongous offensive performance and Memorial Cup Title in 2006.

Was MatsLP triggered by Blix playoff primer? As a reminder he stated that: « New Jersey is no slouch either, but their top 6 simply doesn't stack up against Columbus ». Well, Colombus still has a better top 6 but with that trade NJ definitely closed the gap.

Was it over? No. Then MatsLP called Doddridge to inquire on pending UFA John Klingberg. After this year, his future with the Devils is unclear, but for now he will help solidify the Devils main strength, their defence. John Klingberg is expected to play on the bottom pairing with Jani Hakanpaa and on the PP second squad. Yes, that means that young stud Ty Smith will be demoted to the Utica Comets.

Rest assured Devils fans, MatsLP expressed clearly that his 2018 first round pick is still part of the young core that should drive your team for many years to come. Speaking of demotion, Sam Steel is also packing for Utica. Meanwhile, no doubt that they will help the AHL affiliate push for a championship. Speaking of which, later in the night MatsLP made a deal with Noddan, Ottawa Senators GM and added Kalle Kossila, a nice piece for the Comets top 6!

So all in all, the New Jersey Devils added key pieces at the trade deadline. It’s an understatement that they are going for it.