​One way or another, the New Jersey Devils will learn today whether they’ve added a key player or not. We’ll know more in the hours ahead, and after that you won’t see me posting those silly The Legend of Zelda screen captures on social media. Here are a few quick thoughts on the offer sheet situation in New Jersey, along with some other notes from around the league.
Today is decision day. The Devils tendered an offer sheet to Utah Mammoth forward Barrett Hayton seven days ago, and now we’ll find out whether Utah will match the tendered offer or accept the compensation package in lieu of losing him. I’ve heard talk and whispers about Utah potentially signing Hayton, but I’ve been cautioned not to assume anything. I’m not disputing anyone else’s reporting; I’m simply passing along what I’m told. Tick tock.
In the latest Devils Rink Report, I break down what’s happening with rising player trade requests and why the Devils cannot afford to let that scenario unfold with Jack Hughes. I detail exactly how much time New Jersey has to ensure it doesn’t come to that situation again. This discussion followed our live coverage after the Devils tendered Barrett Hayton’s offer sheet.
We went live on Devils Rink Report to discuss why this move might actually work, and you can catch that discussion here. Please like and subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on notifications so you don’t miss our Friday LIVE sessions. For podcast listeners, Devils Rink Report is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
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On the broader scene, Sportsnet identifies several other potential offer sheet candidates this summer. The Athletic notes that a new name is atop many NHL Draft boards as the Gavin McKenna era ends, with Landon DuPont emerging as a prominent figure to watch. Forever Blueshirts argues it was time for the New York Rangers to move Vincent Trocheck rather than holding onto him, echoing concerns New York has faced with similar players in the past. Pittsburgh Hockey Now offers three thoughts on the Penguins for the rest of the summer, including a trade idea they argue should be rejected. San Jose Hockey Now highlights the Sharks’ decision to pursue Andre Gasseau this summer and questions what his NHL ceiling might be. Colorado Hockey Now questions whether the Avalanche even tried to add Connor Hellebuyck this offseason. Philly Hockey Now looks at how Jamie Drysdale and Trevor Zegras filing for arbitration could influence the Flyers’ summer plan, including the implications for Leo Carlsson’s offer sheet. Detroit Hockey Now examines how the Red Wings’ decision regarding Patrick Kane will shape Detroit’s summer, one way or another, and what it means for the franchise going forward.