James Nichols
What a thriller of a Game 1 that was between the Vegas Golden Knights and Carolina Hurricanes. Like it or not, and I know fans of the New Jersey Devils do not, this will be an entertaining series.
You have two teams who just don’t quite. The difference is one has been there and done that, the other is there after finally getting over the Conference Final hurdle.
Give me six more of those games.
In the links, a Devils trade discussion for an unexpected name in the rumor mill.
Elsewhere, Vincent Trocheck trade rumors, a surprising departure from Colorado, Nashville’s gain, and Pokemon cards.
Yes, the Pokemon cards story is my favorite one today.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: Apparently the Islanders are exploring the trade market for Mathew Barzal. Does it make sense for the Devils to get involved in discussions?
It wasn’t shocking to see Tom Fitzgerald fall short of landing the Nashville Predators GM job. It was surprising to see how he lost out on the opportunity, though. Nashville’s named their GM and it comes with a surprising twist.
Lenni Hameenaho just got a taste of championship glory, marching in an unforgettable IIHF World Championship parade with Finland.
📺 Devils Rink Report: Despite the debunked trade request rumors, the Devils could still move Nemec this summer—and here’s why we broke down on the latest Devils Rink Report why it might actually make sense for their roster needs.
After missing the playoffs, the Devils are doubling down on Sheldon Keefe—smart continuity or a costly mistake heading into 2026-27? 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now
Carolina Hockey Now: The Carolina Hurricanes dropped Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final but it wasn’t nearly as bad as it looked, with plenty of reasons for optimism heading into Game 2.
Forever Blueshirts: The New York Rangers and Habs are linked again in fresh Vincent Trocheck trade rumors, and this latest report could make a lot of sense for both sides this summer.
Colorado Hockey Now: Although their GM has departed, Joe Sakic will slide into the role for the Colorado Avalanche, and it sounds like Jared Bednar is staying put too.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Dan Kingerski hands out surprising A+ report cards to several key Pittsburgh Penguins depth pieces with major UFA decisions looming that could shape their offseason.
Boston Hockey Now: There are several teams that should be interested in acquiring Simon Nemec. The Boston Bruins are one of those teams.
The Athletic ($): Do not worry, I will be digging to find out who does this in the Devils’ locker room. For now, here’s how Pokemon cards have brought the Vegas Golden Knights closer.
NHL.com: Zach Werenski was my pick to win the Norris Trophy this year, and he did just that.
Sportsnet: The NHL is welcoming Russian players, but not Russia itself, into a brand new international All-Star Game format. Here’s the NHLs new All-Star format.
Dallas News: The Dallas Stars have picked a surprise new home for their future arena and downtown Dallas could soon lose both of its major pro sports teams.
