Devils News

Devils ‘Went Hard’ After New Golden Knights Forward | Report

According to Elliotte Friedman, Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald was heavy after Brandon Saad, and confirmed his involvement in light trade talks for a different forward.

Published

2 months ago

February 6, 2025

James Nichols

Ex-St. Louis Blues' Brandon Saad (20) celebrates after scoring the game-winning goal during overtime of an NHL hockey game against the Edmonton Oilers Monday, April 1, 2024, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

If you are one of those who need proof that New Jersey Devils general manager, Tom Fitzgerald, is working behind the scenes, a recent report confirms he was one of the team’s pushing for free agent forward, Brandon Saad.

According to Elliotte Friedman in his latest 32 Thoughts, the Blog, “The Devils, Senators and Maple Leafs also were among those who went hard for Brandon Saad, as did Tampa Bay. Can’t fault Saad for picking Vegas, despite the team’s current struggles. The Golden Knights will be just fine.”

The Devils were one of four teams that were connected to Saad once he became a free agent forward following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with the St. Louis Blues.

Saad ultimately chose the Vegas Golden Knights and has one goal in two games with his new club.

He was previously struggling with the Blues, having scored just seven goals and 16 points in 43 games.

However, Saad was viewed as a candidate who needed a change in scenery and would still be an effective NHL middle-six forward.

The Devils’ involvement makes perfect sense. Their need for depth scoring is well-documented, and continues to be exposed since returning from the holiday break.

Friedman did also confirm the Devils’ involvement in the J.T. Miller sweepstakes. However, his involvement on the former Vancouver Canucks forward wasn’t as intense as his attempt to acquire Saad.

Friedman writes, “Colorado made a run at Miller, but it never got close enough to threaten the Rangers deal. That’s why Casey Mittelstadt’s name is out there. Believe New Jersey, Ottawa and Toronto poked around, but not with much traction.”

Miller wound up going to the Devils’ rival, the New York Rangers. He has two goals and four points in three games with the Blueshirts.

We know a Devils trade is coming. Fitzgerald won’t sit on his hands and not improve the playoff-bound Devils. His involvement in both forwards confirms he’s working towards something. It’s just a matter of when.

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