Blockbuster Rumor: New Jersey Devils open to trading some big names

The New Jersey Devils found themselves on the outside looking in this season. With changes within management, behind the bench, and on the ice, the Devils are in an interesting spot for next season. With some cap space to go along with three 1st-round-picks and several overpaid players on their roster, the team is expected to make some moves this off season. It turns out one of their recent conversations included a name that may surprise you...Nico Hischier. 

Former GM, Ray Shero took a ton of heat in Jersey. From drafting Pavel Zacha, to trading for PK Subban and of course, for giving Hischier a hefty contract extension considering his production. Sure, the potential is still there, like it would be for most former #1 overall picks, but the ownership group was not happy that Shero gave Hischier $7.25 million per, for 7 seasons. 

With the Swiss forward not even coming close to a point a game, this is one of the reasons the Devils decided to let Shero go in January.

With Hischier's limited trade protection only kicking-in for the 2024-25 season, we could see a move while he still has potential to meet the value of his contract. 

We caught up with a league employee in the Western Conference to get their take on the Devils, and NHLTR were told:

The Devils won last off season, or so they thought and ended up blowing it up. Maybe they aren't done? I've been told from a non-playoff exec the team surprisingly brought up Hischier's name for discussion. With some horrible contracts on the books, this is going to be tough to turn around next year. I think they would need their socks blown off to move a former #1 pick this early, but it's not out of the question. A team like Colorado who has money and is successful could make room for someone like Hischier. It will be fun to watch at the Draft, as with the salary cap staying flat, expect a ton of moves.

Interesting times in New Jersey as the likes of Hischier, Subban, and Palmieri could all be shipped out...sooner than later. 

Photo credit:  Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire