The New Jersey Devils have a lot of weaknesses to address this off-season.
The biggest issue, of course, is a lack of quality defensemen but improving upon the team's 28th ranked offense is also imperative if they want to seriously compete for a playoff spot next season.
One way the Devils could boost their offense without moving assets: convince Ilya Kovalchuk to re-sign in New Jersey.
Sportsnet's Elliott Friedman reported on Saturday night that Kovalchuk would like to return to the NHL.
At 34 years of age, his best days are behind him but he just put together a fantastic season in the KHL tallying 32 goals and 78 points in 60 games. Suffice to say, the ultra-talented winger still has some gas in the tank and can be a productive player at the NHL level.
As Friedman noted during the Saturday Headlines segment, the Devils still own Kovalchuk's rights. If he wishes to return the Devils can sign him and insert him into the lineup without any issues. Should Kovalchuk wish to sign elsewhere, all 30 NHL teams would have to approve of his return.
Friedman mentioned one way to get around that could be a sign and trade. New Jersey can give Kovalchuk a new contract and flip him elsewhere for assets should he wish to play for another team and/or the Devils decide they do not want him back.
Either way, the Devils are in position to benefit greatly from Kovalchuk's return if the rumors are true.
New Jersey Devils Blogger • 
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