Don Deal; As the New Jersey Devils officially introduce another top player
It’s no secret that Tom Fitzgerald, general manager of the New Jersey Devils, is searching the trade market. This season, New Jersey’s goaltending has been even worse than their terrible defense.
The general manager of the Devils is looking for a way to stem the flow of goals against, which is 3.54 goals per game and ranks 28th in the NHL. Consequently, trade talks have mentioned Devils forward Michael McLeod more often.
According to a source who spoke with New Jersey Hockey Now, the Devils have the option to trade for McLeod. McLeod’s name has been brought up in trade discussions lately, and the Devils may be ready to give up their previous first-round pick.
In actuality, McLeod is worth more than he has ever been. This season, he is playing a more advanced role on New Jersey’s third line. Moreover, McLeod performed admirably by skating in the top six early in the season despite the absence of Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, the captain of New Jersey. His cheap, short-term contract also offers buyers flexibility.
The 25-year-old has already surpassed his season-long total of goals scored in three games. With 47 games left in 2023–24, he is just two shy of his career high of nine. Prorated over 82 games, he is on pace to record career highs in points and goals.
But McLeod’s increased offensive value isn’t the only thing that makes him the most valuable player in history. Among the top defensive forwards in the NHL right now is McLeod. He is unquestionably their best face-off man, winning 65.5% of draws so far, and he usually plays in their own zone for the majority of their most difficult games.
The Devils have options to upgrade other positions if that’s their goal. They still have a sizable prospect pool, own the majority of their high-value draft capital, and have an abundance of NHL forwards, which enables Fitzgerald to include one in a deal.
Who would want a forward with McLeod’s skill set, then?
You only need to look at the Anaheim Ducks, who frequently visit the Prudential Center to scout New Jersey. Fitzgerald’s admiration for goalie John Gibson is well known. We are aware that the Devils require superior goaltending. Furthermore, we are aware that New Jersey has enough forwards to cover for McLeod should he miss time.
According to the Ducks, Greg Cronin, the head coach of Anaheim, is a big fan of players similar to McLeod. In a Cronin system, McLeod’s toolkit is definitely appropriate. The native of Mississauga, Ontario, can immediately step into the lineup in Leo Carlsson’s place. He is expected to move in anticipation of Adam Henrique, an unrestricted free agent.
Vitek Vanecek gave up five goals in a humiliating loss to the Boston Bruins on Saturday. Two nights ago, upon his return to the American Hockey League, Akira Schmid did the same. Nico Daws will have the chance to assume command of New Jersey’s crease. But with so much experience lost on New Jersey’s blue line this summer, the Devils might prefer a more seasoned presence in goal.
Last summer, the Devils paid McLeod a one-year extension worth $1.4 million. This summer, he will be a restricted free agent, which has advantages of its own even though McLeod is entitled to arbitration. But, the general manager of the Devils has previously demonstrated a willingness to trade roster players. Last season, see Fabian Zetterlund. McLeod might come up next.
