The New Jersey Devils have been one of the league’s most exciting teams through the first two months of the season. The franchise boasts elite young talent and appears poised for sustained contention.
However, management believes additions are necessary to maximize their championship window. A prominent insider recently revealed which high-profile veterans the Devils have been targeting.
Insider Reports Devils Interested in Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault
Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald has been actively exploring the trade market despite the team’s strong performance. The search extends beyond just offense, as New Jersey wants players who bring versatility and physicality.
The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta addressed New Jersey’s trade market activity during an NHL NOW appearance on NHL Network. The insider emphasized that Fitzgerald’s exploration began before Jack Hughes’ recent injury.
“Tom Fitzgerald is looking around, and it’s not just that this hasn’t been knee-jerk because of not having Jack Hughes in the lineup. Even before this, they’ve been kind of scoping things out and seeing what options might be available to them later on in the season,” Pagnotta explained.
The insider noted New Jersey wants more than just offensive firepower. “This is another team that would like to add a little bit extra to this lineup, but it’s not exclusive to the offense. They’re looking for guys with jam and some guys that could perhaps play a multifaceted game,” Pagnotta said.
The reporter revealed specific targets the Devils have been connected to recently. “They were connected to some players about a month ago. Started to hear that Steven Stamkos might be on their radar. I do believe that’s the case,” Pagnotta stated.
Stamkos signed with the Nashville Predators during the 2024 offseason after his legendary Tampa Bay Lightning tenure ended. The 35-year-old veteran brings championship experience and elite scoring ability.
However, Nashville’s disappointing start has sparked speculation about whether they might move veteran pieces. Pagnotta identified additional Nashville players on New Jersey’s radar.
“I do believe there’s some internal interest, at the very least, in guys like Stamkos and guys like Marchessault, also out of Nashville. Ryan O’Reilly as well,” the insider reported.
Jonathan Marchessault also joined Nashville in 2024 after helping Vegas win the Stanley Cup in 2023. The 34-year-old winger provides scoring punch and playoff pedigree. Ryan O’Reilly brings championship experience and two-way ability that fit what New Jersey seeks.
The Devils possess the assets to construct competitive trade packages. They have draft picks, prospects, and young NHL players that could entice Nashville if the Predators decide to retool. New Jersey’s $2.1 billion valuation also provides financial flexibility to absorb larger contracts.
Whether Fitzgerald ultimately pulls the trigger on acquiring veteran help remains uncertain. For now, the Devils are conducting their due diligence on multiple high-profile targets.
