James Nichols
Going into last night’s first round, man anticipated the New Jersey Devils were going to trade their pick.
However, the Devils selected at 12th overall—reeling in a player that embodies work ethic—which has brought a mixed bag of emotions to the table.
My recommendation?
Reserve your judgements. There’s still so much time left for this offseason.
Elsewhere, NHL trade activity, Blueshirts land scorer, and Kirill Marchenko’s availavility.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: The Devils opted to keep their first round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, selecting Alexander Command out of Sweden.
Here’s what we know about the new Devils prospect and an intriguing player comp.
📺 Devils Rink Report: In a recent Devils Rink Report, Spittin’ Chiclets/Game Notes co-host & producer Pasha Eshghi joined me to react to the Simon Nemec trade.
Here’s the rapid reaction to the Devils hanging onto their first round pick and taking Command 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now
NHL.com: Mason McTavish has been traded from the Anaheim Ducks to the St. Louis Blues and it could be a major boost for St. Louis’ young core.
Forever Blueshirts: What’s next for the New York Rangers after pulling off a slick move, acquieing Pavel Dorofeyev via trade, and then signing him to a long-term extension?
It was a pretty good monday for the Blueshirts, who also drafted Albert Smits fifth overall.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Ottawa Senators once turned down a trade for Erik Karlsson return via the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, here’s why they may not this time.
Boston Hockey Now: It didn’t work for J.J. Peterka with Utah. Now, the Boston Bruins trade for the German forward and unit him with a German-led coaching staff.
San Jose Hockey Now: The San Jose Sharks just had an insane draft. They selected Ivar Stenberg second overall, Keaton Verhoff ninth overall, and then traded up to 21 to select Ryan Lin. What a haul.
Colorado Hockey Now: Brent Burns is back for his 23rd NHL season and the Coloado Avalanche just signed the veteran defenseman to a one-year deal.
Detroit Hockey Now: The Detroit Red Wings traded goalie Sebastian Cossa for a first-round pick from the Mammoth.
Montreal Hockey Now: The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly making a massive offer in trade talks for Kirill Marchenko and it could be a game-changer for Montreal’s offense.
Spekaing of Marchenko, Kevin Weekes reported yesterday the Russian winger is unlikely o extend in Columbus. A trade feels imminent.
Chicago Hockey Now: The Chicago Blackhawks are making a smart business move by trading Andreas Burakovsky to the Senators and it could open the door for a buyout scenario.
