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Devils Revamping 4th Line?

September 21, 2014, 10:27 AM ET [61 Comments]
Todd Cordell
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Pete DeBoer has said not to read too much into his line combinations at training camp, but certain combos he has used seem to have a better chance of sticking than others.

One line that I've found particularly interesting is the trio of Ryan Carter, Stephen Gionta and Jordin Tootoo.

While Carter remains unsigned, the team still would like to retain him, and I think they're quite curious about what Tootoo can bring to the table.

Tootoo struggled after leaving Nashville for Detroit, but in 2011-12 he recorded 30 points in 77 games with the Predators. The Devils would be thrilled with anything close to that from a 4th liner.

DeBoer has long loved the Carter - Gionta - Steve Bernier line but, with Bernier coming off a dreadful 2013-14 campaign, DeBoer appears to be open to changes to try and make things work.

Given the team already has 14 forwards on one-way deals, retaining Carter and signing Tootoo could make things more difficult than they need to be. That in mind, DeBoer has said if he wanted a player to remain with the team Lou Lamoriello has always found a way to make it work.

Ultimately the rest of training camp and New Jersey's six-game preseason schedule will decide what the opening night roster looks like, but I think we could be getting a preview of the Devils' new 4th line.

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