With the Olympic break here, the trade deadline approaches as the Devils struggle with a 28-27-2 record, sitting 7th in the Metropolitan Division and facing a 2.4% playoff chance. Despite a promising start, they’ve faltered, prompting GM Tom Fitzgerald to consider short-term selling and long-term buying, especially with pending UFAs like Evgenii Dadonov and Luke Glendening. The team’s focus may shift towards securing goaltending help, as Jacob Markström’s performance has been subpar. New Jersey’s limited cap space and draft picks may lead to moves aimed at balancing short-term needs with future plans.
