Devils Daily: Debunked PTO Rumor; Subscriber Mailbag

NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported this summer that NHL veteran Milan Lucic was skating in New Jersey to keep in shape. Lucic is eyeing an NHL return, however, has yet to be cleared by the NHL to do so. That’s because he was arrested in Boston for assault, although, the charges were ultimately dropped. A rumor came about on Wednesday that the New Jersey Devils were going to bring Lucic to training camp on a PTO.

New Jersey Hockey Now got to the bottom of the rumor. More on that below.

Also below, a loaded subscriber mailbag.

Elsewhere, Leon Draisaitl’s impact on Connor McDavid’s next contract, Ottawa’s mindset on a Linus Ullmark extension, and keeping an eye on the Washington blue line.

Let’s do that hockey.

Devils News

New Jersey Hockey Now: Ahead of the 2024-25 season, Devils fans submitted their questions, and we did our best to answer them in our latest subscriber mailbag. Topics such as trading Dawson Mercer, a Taylor Hall reunion, and Dougie Hamilton’s health status came up, among other things. (+)

Late last night, rumors were flying via social media that the Devils were signing Milan Lucic to a PTO for training camp. However, the Devils confirmed to New Jersey Hockey Now that is, in fact, not the case.

From the #NJDevils on Milan Lucic PTO rumor:

"Categorically untrue. His situation lies with the league. We haven't and couldn't sign him to a PTO. Apparently, Stauffer corrected t on his hit later n the day."

As you were, folks.

— James Nichols (@JamesNicholsNHL) September 5, 2024

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NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

The Athletic ($): So, if Leon Draisaitl’s new contract saw him receive the highest AAV in NHL history, then… what’s Connor McDavid’s going to be worth?

Sportsnet: Linus Ullmark is working the 2024-25 season on an expiring contract. The Ottawa Senators say they’re in no rush to ink the former Vezina Trophy winner to an extension.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Rarely, if ever, seasons are won in October and November. However, seasons can slip away in those early months. Here’s how the first two months of the season can determine the Pittsburgh Penguins‘ fate.

Florida Hockey Now: Former Florida Panthers forward Steven Lorentz has agreed to join the Toronto Maple Leafs on a professional tryout at training camp.

Washington Hockey Now: Of all the teams in the Metropolitan Division, the Washington Capitals might be the hardest to read. They’re a true wild card that could either good, bad, or middling following their summer makeover. On their blue line, there will be plenty of battles in training camp. It’s one for Devils fans to keep an eye on.

For more Devils news, visit New Jersey Hockey Now and like our Facebook page.

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