The New Jersey Devils have major holes at the goalie position, both sides of the defense, and now with Michael McLeod out indefinitely, they have a need at center. The Devils could definitely survive if Tomas Nosek comes back full healthy (and Jack Hughes, obviously), but it’s not ideal. They could use a center to move everyone in better spots.g.
There are plenty of center options out there on the trade market. Adam Henrique is reportedly giving the Ducks a great option on the trade market. Trevor Zegras might be available after those same Ducks traded for Cutter Gautier. Who knows the status of Shane Pinto after his gambling-related suspension, but he could probably be had. Buffalo might see the writing on the wall and move Casey Middlestadt.
However, there’s a huge issue with the market. Everyone costs a ton. The Vancouver Canucks traded for center Elias Lindholm, costing them Andrei Kuzmenko, a first-round pick, and two prospects. The Canadiens got a first and a third-round pick for Sean Monahan, a player that the Flames literally traded a first-round pick just to get off their roster.
With trades costing so much, the Devils might go another route. There is a very good center, one who is good at exactly what the team needs, that is available for free. He does come with some baggage, but let’s see the positives first.
Jonathan Toews was once one of the best centers in the NHL. During the Chicago Blackhawks championship seasons, Toews was the reason the Stanley Cup went to the Windy City (along with Patrick Kane). He did just about everything for the Hawks, playing in all three phases.
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