The New Jersey Devils season has not gone as planned. Tyler Toffoli’s performance this season has been one of the few highlights. Toffoli is on track to score about 35 goals this season, something the Devils expected and have received. The Devils traded Yegor Sharangovich, who has also been enjoying a solid year, for a third-round pick. This was a beautiful hockey trade that benefited both parties.
The Devils expected to compete this year, but it all came crumbling down. The Devils are currently out of the playoffs, and it appears that a miracle will be required to claw their way back into a wild card berth. What do teams do in the basement? Sell. That is exactly what the Devils should do with Toffoli.
As a pending free agent, Toffoli is an ideal option for the NHL Trade Deadline. However, reports suggest that the Devils would rather maintain Toffoli and try to re-sign him. While Toffoil would benefit the Devils in the long run, it is not the best option right now.
The Devils can easily obtain a first-round pick from a contender in exchange for a prospect or another pick. If Toffoli has enjoyed his time in New Jersey as much as he has, there should be no reason for the Devils to offer him a contract in free agency in July. With only one day remaining until the deadline, there is no assurance that Toffoli will sign an extension. Rolling the dice is not.
With Sean Walker, Adam Henrique, and others vying for a first-round pick, the Devils should easily land a similar deal. This would give the Devils two first-round picks this season. If the Devils do not trade for a goalkeeper, they can combine one or both picks to acquire a goalie like as Juuse Saros, Jeremy Swayman, or someone similar. For what it’s worth, trading two first-round picks for Jacob Markstrom would be a huge mistake, but that’s a topic for another day.
Missing out on a haul for Toffoli is poor asset management by Tom Fitzgerald, who has had a difficult season himself. Toffoli should be dealt with regardless of the circumstances. It’s a no-brainer if you can get a better bundle than you gave up for Toffoli. If Toffoli truly enjoys New Jersey, where he has been an excellent fit, he will return in free agency.
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