New Jersey Devils Rumors: GM Fitzgerald Makes Trade Offer

The New Jersey Devils are expected to be one of the more aggressive teams on the trade market this season as we approach the March 3 deadline. The Devils have finally gotten over the hump and appear to be a Stanley Cup contender in the Eastern Conference. Look for general manager Tom Fitzgerald to pull the trigger on a huge trade and rumor has the Devils have been in advanced talks with the San Jose Sharks and have likely made a trade offer for winger Timo Meier.

Meier fits the bill of exactly what the Devils are looking for. He's a top-six forward who can score and isn't afraid to hit anything that moves. The cost will be significant, however the Devils have assets to burn and could easily meet the Sharks demands.

Meier is also under team control as he's a pending restricted free agent who is due a $10 million qualifying offer this summer. Expect to see the Devils sign him to a long-term extension before the QO kicks in. Meier is close friends with countryman and Devils' captain Nico Hischier and this certainly could be a match made in heaven.

Meier has recorded 52 points in 55 games this season, carrying a cap hit of $6 million and he doesn't hold any trade protection. At this point, New Jersey should be considered a heavy favorite.

Photo credit:  Tom Horak-USA TODAY Sports