James Nichols
Watching how the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs unfold, I’m certain the New Jersey Devils are feeling similar, but probably greater FOMO.
The Devils were “pissed off” at missing the postseason, and with the way the Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks are making noise in the first round, the Devils must feel like they could have similarly been successful had they gotten to the dance.
Yet, there’s reason for optimism says the experts at The Athletic. More on why in the links.
Elsewhere, how the Artemi Panarin trade is now finalized, a pair of sweeps, and more.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: ICYMI – Sunny Mehta very well may already have a Devils trade partner after a fellow general manager explained no one on his team is untouchable.
The Athletic ($): Despite the disappointing season, here are three positives the Devils can come away with from this season.
📺 Devils Rink Report: While Mehta explained everything is still under evaluation, did he tip his hand when explaining Sheldon Keefe’s future? I broke it down on the latest Devils Rink Report.
Full episode here 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now
Forever Blueshirts: After the Los Angeles Kings were swept in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, here’s how the New York Rangers Artemi Panarin trade is finalized.
Colorado Hockey Now: The Colorado Avalanche complete sweep of Kings — Nathan MacKinnon powered Colorado with 2G, 1A as Anze Kopitar played the final game of his legendary 20-year career in a tearful LA exit.
Boston Hockey Now: The Buffalo Sabres cruise in Game 4 and push the Boston Bruins to the brink as Buffalo scored four in the first period and never looked back.
Montreal Hockey Now: Brandon Hagel scores twice in 3rd, the Tampa Bay Lightning rally in Game 4 against the Montreal Canadiens to even the series. Here’s all the highlights.
The Athletic ($): The Anaheim Ducks are fun to watch, man. Here’s how they rallied twice last night to take a commanding 3-1 lead over the Edmonton Oilers, pushing the back-to-back runner ups to the brink in the first-round.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Arturs Silovs and Sidney Crosby shine for Pittsburgh Penguins as they force Game 5 vs. the Philadelphia Flyers. Here are three things to like and two things to worry about heading into Game 6.
Carolina Hockey Now: The Carolina Hurricanes become the first team to advance to the second round. Here’s three things to like and three things to dislike about their postseason run thus far.
