|
Devils acquire Grabner from Rangers |
|
|
|
|
|
Follow me on Twitter @ToddCordell
The New Jersey Devils have pulled off a significant trade with the New York Rangers(!) in advance of Monday's trade deadline.
In exchange for defense prospect Yegor Rykov, and a 2nd round pick, the Devils have acquired winger Michael Grabner.
Grabner is an elite skater who has scored 52 goals since the beginning of the 2016-17 season, which ties him for 21st during that span. He will be a massive boost for a Devils team that is severely lacking scoring beyond Taylor Hall and the top line.
As for what they gave up, Rykov is a promising defense prospect who has spent consecutive seasons as a regular in the KHLer, which is impressive for a player of his age (20).
He has also represented Russia internationally at the World Juniors, where he tallied seven points in seven games, so it's clear he's well regarded in the hockey world.
While he could very well become an NHLer – perhaps even a good one – he was a 5th round pick just over a year ago so the Devils are selling pretty high here.
A 2nd round pick isn't nothing but the Devils have drafted as many players as anyone over the last couple years so they can afford to take the hit.
I'll likely have more thoughts on this deal in the coming days but for now I'll say this: I like the move.
Recent Posts
Hall extends point streak but Devils fall to Blue Jackets
Marcus Johansson has played better than given credit for
New Jersey Devils Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»