NHL Trade Rumors: Devils Linked To 3 Big-Name Forwards

Tuesday, June 17, 2025 , , ,
Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson looks on during 2025 game.

The New Jersey Devils are wasting no time this offseason. After a disappointing first-round exit, GM Tom Fitzgerald is aggressively working the phones, and NJ Hockey Now’s James Nichols reports the Devils are locked in on three high-end forwards: Martin Necas, Jason Robertson, and J.J. Peterka. 

All three are either already on the block or linked to trade rumors, and each one fits the exact profile of what New Jersey needs: top-six scoring talent with star-level upside.

Martin Necas and J.J. Peterka Are on the Radar

Despite thriving alongside Nathan MacKinnon in Colorado, Martin Necas is reportedly unhappy with his situation in Denver. He’s entering the final year of his deal and could test free agency in 2026. That has the Colorado Avalanche considering options, and Fitzgerald should be circling. Necas notched 27 goals and 83 points last season and could bring dynamic chemistry to a Devils top-six looking for another gear.

Meanwhile, J.J. Peterka is gaining steam as a trade chip in Buffalo, driven in part by agent Allen Walsh. Peterka, 23, just put up 28 goals and 68 points and is projected to hit 30 goals annually as he enters his prime. With contract negotiations looming, Buffalo may be willing to move him. The Devils have more assets to offer than division rival New York, who is also sniffing around Peterka, and they shouldn’t hesitate to outbid.

Jason Robertson Could Be the Ultimate Prize

Then there’s Jason Robertson. Yes, that Jason Robertson, the 40-goal scorer potentially on the block in Dallas. Cap pressure and a changing roster could force the Stars to listen, especially after adding Mikko Rantanen. 

If true, Fitzgerald should go all in. At just 26, Robertson brings size, elite finishing ability, and the kind of star power that could transform New Jersey’s offense. With a projected $11.5M AAV on his next deal and the Devils holding over $31M in cap space next summer, the fit is almost too perfect.

New Jersey has the assets to make a blockbuster happen, especially on defense where the team is loaded on the right side. Whether it’s Simon Nemec, Seamus Casey, or even Dougie Hamilton, Fitzgerald has the pieces to pull off a major swing. 

Photo Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors