Devils Interested In Predators Star: Report

Devils Interested In Predators Star: Report

Blog Article

The New Jersey Devils are a team to watch very closely leading up to the March 7 NHL trade deadline. While star forward Jack Hughes is out for the season, the Devils' plan is to still add to their roster. This was made abundantly clear when they acquired defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks on March 6.

However, with Hughes out, the Devils are looking to add a center. They have already been linked to New York Islanders center Brock Nelson, but he is now not their only confirmed target.

According to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, the Devils have also expressed interest in Nashville Predators center Ryan O'Reilly.

It is not particularly surprising that the Devils have reportedly reached out to the Predators about O'Reilly. It is no secret that he is one of the top centers floating around the rumor mill leading up to the deadline, and he would be a significant addition for New Jersey.

O'Reilly, 34, is still a very impactful two-way center at this stage of his career. In 58 games this season, he has 16 goals, 39 points, and 54 blocks. With numbers like these, he would give New Jersey's top six, especially with Hughes sidelined. In addition, his defensive play would make him an obvious choice for their penalty kill.

O'Reilly would be more than a rental for the Devils if acquired, too. This is because he is signed until the completion of the 2026-27 season, carrying an affordable $4.5 million cap hit. He would also give the Devils a former Stanley Cup champion and captain, which undoubtedly adds to his appeal.

We will need to wait and see if the Devils' interest in O'Reilly leads to them acquiring the veteran forward by the deadline from here. Given how solid of an all-around player he is, they likely won't be the only team in the mix.