New Jersey Devils Linked To 2 Big-Name Goaltenders
The New Jersey Devils have been busy this offseason, but that doesn't mean Sunny Mehta's job is done.
Proteau feels the Devils are a team to watch on the trade front. "And really, think of how dominant the Devils could be with someone like Winnipeg Jets superstar Connor Hellebuyck or St. Louis Blues Stanley Cup-winner Jordan Binnington in net. That kind of trade would propel the Devils to the top of the Metro. The Devils are trying to win now. That’s why a trade for an established goalie makes so much sense for New Jersey."
The Devils' GM recently signed free-agent forward Anthony Mantha, made a big trade to move Simon Nemec to Calgary, and now, all the attention goes to New Jersey's crease. According to multiple reports, the Devils are interested in acquiring a starting goaltender, and two names to keep an eye on include, Connor Hellebuyck and Jordan Binnington.
The Hockey News' Adam Proteau feels the Devils are in prime position to make a deal for a goaltender, and doesn't feel them signing David Rittich to a one-year, $1 million contract is going to be the end of Mehta's upgrades.
While Jacob Markstrom was dealt to the Florida Panthers, it's likely, if the team can convince Jake Allen to waive his no-trade clause, Mehta can package Allen with a couple of their first-round picks, and a prospect or two to land Hellebuyck. Winnipeg would likely want Dawson Mercer included in any trade seeing Hellebuyck go to New Jersey.
Meanwhile in St. Louis, Joel Hofer is the goaltender of the now, and the future, so Binnington is likely on his way out before training camp kicks off in September. The Devils wouldn't have to give up near as much to acquire the veteran, and this is certainly the more affordable option.