I want Nico Hischier on this team so ******* bad it's unreal. Having him, Zacha, and McLeod all develop to their full potential would make the Devils lethal down the middle in a few years. McLeod is tearing it up right now for Mississauga, and Zacha started showing signs of improvement towards the end of the season.

The Devils need to go all out for Shattenkirk for two reasons:
1. This defense is atrocious and signing him would be an instant upgrade. Especially if they are able to make a good, smaller signing as well.
2. If Shattenkirk is a Devil, then he is not a Ranger, which would definitely be something to smile about.

Kovalchuk would undoubtedly provide more veteran experience to this team that is getting younger. If he is able to transition back like Radulov did I would be thrilled. I think the situation has alot of potential upside for New Jersey if:
a. he's good, the whole team clicks and somehow make it back to the playoffs
b. he's good but the team doesn't click so we trade him for everything we can at the Trade Deadline
c. he wants to do a sign & trade to go immediately to a cup contender and the trade works out in our favor
The only way the Devils really do lose in this Kovalchuk situation is if he decides to sit out the 2017-18 season and become a UFA next season, with the Devils losing him for nothing.

The only way an offseason like you posted could get better is if Shero is able to take advantage of a team before the expansion draft and we get some good players.

Your brought up a good point, if Kovalchuk signs and he doesn't click with the team, trading him to a playoff contender late would be a great move.

One more thing: are you Zach (@henriqueitsover) on twitter?