The NHL offseason is heating up, and trade rumors are swirling faster than a Connor McDavid breakaway. One of the most intriguing rumors involves the Anaheim Ducks and New Jersey Devils, who are reportedly discussing a potential blockbuster trade that could shake up the league.
Will the Devils Land Gibson & Zegras? Analyzing the Potential Trade
The Ducks’ Assets: Gibson and Zegras
The Ducks are in a rebuilding phase, and their two most valuable assets are goaltender John Gibson and center Trevor Zegras. Gibson, a former All-Star and Vezina Trophy finalist, has been a stalwart in net for the Ducks despite playing behind a struggling team. Zegras, a young, dynamic playmaker with a penchant for highlight-reel goals, is considered one of the most promising talents in the NHL.
The Devils’ Needs: Goaltending and Scoring
The New Jersey Devils, on the other hand, want to be a Stanley Cup contender. They have a talented young core led by Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, but they lack a true number one goaltender and could use another offensive weapon.
The Rumored Deal
The rumored deal would see the Devils send center Dawson Mercer, their 2024 first-round pick, and their 2025 second-round pick to the Ducks in exchange for Gibson and Zegras. This would address the Devils’ needs while giving the Ducks a promising young center and valuable draft capital to accelerate their rebuild.
Analyzing the Trade
This trade would be a win-win for both teams. The Devils would get a proven starting goaltender and a potential franchise center to complement their existing talent, making them instant contenders. The Ducks, meanwhile, would acquire a solid young player in Mercer and two high draft picks to add to their prospect pool.
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This trade wouldn’t be good for just Zegras let alone him and Gibson. The Ducks are literally loaded with high end centers with more than a few in the minors that will play bottom pairing roles perfectly. Mercer at best is a middle six player and probably a third line winger on the Ducks. If this deal has any legs behind it The Ducks need more. For Zegras AND Gibson it would take a prospect like Mercer, this years first and next years first and a 2026 third. No deal unless it is something like that or very close.