Forward on Waivers Can Address Devils Depth Need

There’s plenty of buzz about the New Jersey Devils needing to do something about their lack of forward depth. On Monday, an intriguing forward hit the waiver wire, and general manager Tom Fitzgerald should consider a claim.

RELATED: Devils Current Fourth Line Is Not Sustainable; What Can They Do?

The St. Louis Blues placed speedy forward Kasperi Kapanen on the waiver wire earlier today. The Finnish forward is on St. Louis’ books for a mere $1 million, and is certainly an upgrade from whoever the Devils can ice on the fourth line currently.

At this point in his career, Kapanen is known more for his speed and his defense. He used to bet the kind of player who was heavy on the attack. However, he’s moved away from that part of his career and has been working more as a shot suppressor recently.

Again, the Devils don’t need much. Kapanen is more of a stylistic fit as opposed to a direct replacement for one of Curtis Lazar or Nathan Bastian.

The 28-year-old can use his speed to his advantage on the forecheck much like the Devils do, win puck battles, skate the puck out of danger to toward the offensive zone, and kill penalties if necessary.

His cheap cap hit and expiring contract make him even more appealing as a no-strings attached add.

READ MORE: Free Agent Forwards Still Available to Improve Devils Depth

Similar to free agent adds, Kapanen costs only dollars. They don’t have to give anything up to get him, and they’d be adding an NHLer to the lineup, as opposed to reaching down into the American Hockey League where the Utica Comets are winless. The Blues might have waived Kapanen, but he’s certainly more an NHL forward than perhaps whoever the Devils will recall.

The kicker? Kapanen played for Sheldon Keefe in the 2019-20 season on the Toronto Maple Leafs.

As a cheap add, it’s worth a shot in order to give the Devils head coach the ability to roll four consistent lines again.

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

Follow us on 𝕏:

@NJDHockeyNow, @JamesNicholsNHL, @NickNatale10

And on Threads:

@JamesNicholsNHL