Hopeful roster nextbyear

While Id be all in on bringing in Hamilton, it's unlikely (but not impossible) he signs with NJ ... saying that, I agree with you 100% that NJ needs another veteran RD to supplement the current roster, in case Walsh is not ready. I imagine more realistic targets, who would be nice fits, would be Savard or Larsson. Id really like either one of those signings, ideally to contract term 3 years (or less).

I also agree they need another veteran LD. Murray would work for me ... as would many others. There will be a large number of solid options. I imagine Fitzgerald just waits out the market & takes someone who is willing to sign a team friendly contract, similar to how he signed Kulikov & Vatanen this season. Given the large number of LD prospects in the system (unlike RD), keeping the veteran signing short term should be a focus.

I understand the Johnny Hockey deal to get a veteran wing in who can score, but I think at this point, NJ is going to wait at least another season for such a trade .... keeping the young assets and going for another year of growth for the young skaters, feels like the direction Fitzgerald would prefer at this time. A step forward in the standings and continued improvement of the young core is the goal ... assuming that is done successfully, I could see the bar being raised for 22-23 with playoffs the goal. It would be in the offseason after the 21-22 season that I could see them making such a trade, more so than this coming offseason.

Also agree with you that Johnsson and Butcher should probably move on ... one way or another.

Thanks for the post. The best is yet to come for this team.

No on Bratt in that move

If not Dougie, go throw stupid money at Jones from Columbus, get his brother traded here first from Edm
EDIT: Also remember that Smitty likes playing his off side. Now starting in the NHL is no where to begin that, but since he will have a yr under his belt, maybe that changes. He played the right these past few games with Bahl. We are still VERY weak on teh right but just something to keep in mind

NJD won their first cup with 6 LHD.
I don't think we should be overthinking righty/lefty too much.

Some of our best d-man options may come this year before expansion draft.
STL, MIN, COL, TBL, others could move a blueliner.
Hopefully Fitzy is all over that.



Luke Hughes can play RD as well (also a lefty).
Paired with Aidan Hreschuk most of this season.

Im not picky at the forward positions, but Id strongly prefer the D not playing off; but I obviously I agree, talent far outweighs such an issue. Hell, they didnt perform that well, but I believe Russia had 100% left handed players on the blueline last World Juniors.

However, given you are working from a clean slate during the UFA process, why not target guys playing where you need them? I dont think that's an overthink, just logic ... In the end, sure, get the most talented player at the right contract. Im on board with that ... go get two, maybe three veteran D to supplement the pipeline & existing roster, regardless of side.

Flames decline, not enpugh value