Well, it’s official. The New York Rangers waved the white flag yesterday. It’s interesting, given the Rangers are only separated from the New Jersey Devils by four points. Still, it’s clearly a different situation. The Rangers have players to sell and a new core to build. The Devils underperformed this season, but playoffs are still within reach, and they’re a team you add to, not subtract.
It undeniably does feel like déjà vu, however. A letter to the fans? Where have we seen this before?
More from our sister site, Forever Blueshirts, in the links on what’s next with the Devils’ rival.
In New Jersey, Tom Fitzgerald was asked about Lenni Hämeenaho, and it sounds like he’s caught the attention of the decision-makers by surprise, and perhaps we’ll see him at the varsity level this season.
Plus, plenty of NHL trade discussion below.
Let’s do that hockey.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: Down in Utica, New Jersey’s top forward prospect, Lenni Hämeenaho, is having a breakout performance. Will the Devils recall the 21-year-old forward? Tom Fitzgerald explains he’s been difficult to ignore.
📺 Devils Rink Report: On the latest Devils Rink Report, Dimitri Filipovic joined me to discuss the Devils’ latest storylines, including what to do with Dougie Hamilton and their biggest need.
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NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now
Forever Blueshirts: Well, it’s Groundhog Day again! New York Rangers GM, Chris Drury, wrote a letter to the Blueshirts faithful, explaining that they’re about to go through a “re-tool, not a rebuild.” Potato, potato.
What it really means is the Rangers are getting ready to sell off most of their parts. Said parts start with Artemi Panarin, who is “OK with whatever happens.”
Sportsnet: Joining the Rangers as likely sellers, the Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames are ready to deal. In fact, there’s probably a few players on each team that could benefit the Devils.
San Jose Hockey Now: The latest San Jose Sharks trade was to accomplish one thing. Clear the way for Michael Misa to stick around and play with the Sharks. They did just that, and Misa’s officially remaining in the NHL.
Vegas Hockey Now: When the Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday, it meant a little more to him than previous victories.
Philly Hockey Now: Dan Vladar is on the shelf, and the Philadelphia Flyers‘ playoff aspirations are dissolving. Will James spells out five netminders the Flyers could pursue to fill in.
