With the New Jersey Devils fading from the playoff race, the first domino has fallen. The team has opted to trade winger Tyler Toffoli to the Winnipeg Jets. In return, the Devils will receive draft pick compensation in the trade. It is ideally not the spot the team thought they would be in, but business is business.
Devils Trade Toffoli at the Deadline
This was supposed to be a Devils team that took the next steps. After having a phenomenal 2022-23 season, the Devils made key additions in the summer. One of them was acquiring Tyler Toffoli for Yegor Sharangovich and a third round draft pick. Toffoli came into a lethal group featuring Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Jesper Bratt. The trade did pay dividends, as Toffoli fit in immediately.
Toffoli has lit the lamp 26 times and has 44 points on the season. He has been a stellar fit on the power play and has been a constant on the top two lines. Although, inconsistent goaltending and injuries have derailed the season and led the Devils to parting ways. It’s a tough pill to swallow but it makes sense for both parties in this deal.
What This Means
For the Devils
The Devils could still look to bring back Toffoli in the offseason but trading him at the deadline makes sense. He is a pending free agent and there is the chance he could move on to greener pastures. With the Devils out of the mix, they capitalize on a return and make out well in this trade. The future for the team is still very bright, as the core is in place. Getting fully healthy and addressing the glaring needs will be a good reset for the club
For the Jets
Look no further than Toffoli if you are needing added scoring. Toffoli has proven to be a consistent scorer this season and is a great depth addition in the lineup. He can slot anywhere in the lineup while also playing on the special teams units. Adding Toffoli gives this team another scorer and makes them more lethal than they already are. With the playoffs incoming, they have a proven player in the postseason. He brings a winning pedigree and has 18 goals and 44 points in the postseason. This deal is a win-win for both parties.
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