The Hot Stove is still burning, and the New Jersey Devils are fanning the flames. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald isn’t just looking for a spark; he’s looking for an inferno to re-ignite his top-six forward group. After a season that fell short of expectations, Fitzgerald’s message was clear: this roster needs a significant upgrade. And it seems he had his sights set on a prime target in the Pacific Northwest.
Sources confirm the Devils made a serious inquiry to the Seattle Kraken about versatile forward Jared McCann, only to be met with a firm “no.” This isn’t just a casual tire-kicking; it’s a clear signal of New Jersey’s intent to add established, high-impact talent. But the Kraken, a team building a distinct identity, see McCann as a core piece, not a trade chip. At 29, with a team-friendly $5 million AAV for two more seasons, McCann represents incredible value in today’s NHL, making Seattle’s reluctance to part with him completely understandable.
Why McCann Was the Perfect Fit for the Devils
So, why the intense focus on McCann? For starters, his offensive consistency is undeniable. He’s a proven goal-scorer who can slot seamlessly into a top-six role, providing the finishing touch the Devils desperately need. A package for McCann would have likely been prospect-heavy, as New Jersey is keen on keeping its young, dynamic roster intact. While names like Dawson Mercer are consistently brought up by other teams, Fitzgerald has shown little interest in moving him.
This tells us the Devils are looking to supplement their core, not subtract from it. The rejection of the McCann trade proposal leaves Fitzgerald in a tough spot. Does he circle back with a more aggressive offer, potentially including a roster player? Or does he pivot to other targets? The clock is ticking, and the pressure is on in New Jersey to make a move that will put them back in the contender conversation.
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