Radko Gudas
You might have believed you’d see the name “Alex Pietrangelo” here, but that’s not a move that makes a lot of sense for the Devils right now. He’s definitely someone who makes the team better, but at 30 years old it’s hard to argue the Devils should sign a defenseman to the likely mandatory six or seven-year deal. That doesn’t even include the fact he will likely make north of $8 million per season.
Radko Gudas feels like a move that makes a lot more sense. He has a certain reputation that’s not great, but he’s been really good with the Washington Capitals after the Philadelphia Flyers traded him away. Gudas has been suspended on multiple occasions, including once for ten games. A vicious slash to the back of the neck of Mathieu Perreault. That reputation will always follow Gudas, and there’s the possibility that as a repeat offender he could be suspended when it matters.
Gudas is a plus defenseman that plays an aggressive game that seems to fit what Tom Fitzgerald might believe is right for New Jersey. Gudas might hurt his contract status by refusing to play in the NHL’s return. It’s a strange time, and if he doesn’t believe in the safety behind it, it might not be worth it for him. However, it’s no surprise it would hurt his next contract.
The Devils could get Gudas at a cheaper price thanks to his decision. Gudas might be the force the Devils could use on the back end. It will be interesting once the offseason finally begins.