NHL Rumors: Devils To Maintain Toughness In Roster This Offseason

Friday, April 12, 2024

As the offseason approaches, the New Jersey Devils are assessing their roster to ensure they maintain a level of toughness and physicality on the ice, according to Jeff Marek.

With enforcer Kurtis MacDermid's impending free agency looming, the team faces a critical decision regarding how to fill that role or find a suitable replacement.

In the highly competitive Metropolitan Division, where many rivals boast formidable physical presences, the Devils recognize the importance of having players who can effectively handle such challenges.

The departure of MacDermid, known for his ability to deter opposing teams from taking liberties with Devils players, prompts reflection on the team's approach to sustaining a robust presence moving forward.

Surveying the landscape within their division, characterized by the presence of formidable enforcers across multiple teams, emphasizes the need for a careful balance between skill and grit.

Given the ongoing rivalry with the Rangers and the persistent threat of players like Matt Rempe, maintaining a roster that can stand up to physical challenges remains a top priority for Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald.

Looking around the division, basically, every team has an enforcer. The Carolina Hurricanes have Brendan Lemieux, the Columbus Blue Jackets have Mathieu Olivier, the New York Islanders have Matt Martin, the New York Rangers have Matt Rempe, the Philadelphia Flyers have Nicolas Deslauriers, and the Washington Capitals have Tom Wilson.

The only team that doesn't boast an enforcer in their lineup in the Metropolitan Division is the Pittsburgh Penguins, as noted by Marek.

Over his seven-year NHL career, the 30-year-old Macdermid has 11 goals, 20 assists, a -24 plus/minus rating, 368 penalty minutes, and 511 hits across 263 games played.

Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports



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