5 Players New Jersey Devils Could Get in “Hockey Trades”

Jake McCabe (D), Buffalo Sabres

For the New Jersey Devils, Jake McCabe would be a formidable addition. He’s played over 300 games despite only being 26-years old and isn’t a UFA until 2021. Since Andy Greene and Sami Vatanen will likely be shipped out of New Jersey in the coming weeks, McCabe can fill some of that experience void made by their departures.

McCabe’s Corsi-For (49.81), Fenwick (50.29), and shots on net (51.57) at five-on-five are commendable, especially given he plays for such a dismal team. His RAPM numbers aren’t too glamorous, but he has the highest even strength (EVD) and shorthanded (SHD) defensive goals above average/replacement (GAR) on the Sabres. Throw in his ability to block shots and physical game, he’s the type of stay-at-home defenseman New Jersey hasn’t had in quite some time.

A deal like this presents an opportunity to ship out Miles Wood, who is originally from Buffalo and supposedly being shopped by the Devils. This scenario was previously discussed in a piece published before the season began, and makes sense for both teams. Wood hasn’t quite panned out since netting 19 goals two seasons ago, but occasionally shows flashes of competence using his speed, physicality, ability to draw penalties, and could benefit from a change of scenery. The Sabres do have six pending UFA forwards on their current roster and could be actively seeking young forwards they’ll be able to have control of beyond this season—like Wood, who has two years remaining on his current contract (after which he’ll be an RFA).