New Jersey Devils: 5 Left Wings To Target In Free Agency

Mike Hoffman

Back when the Florida Panthers traded for Mike Hoffman, he was riddled with controversy. We even said we didn’t think he was worth the risk to the lockerroom. We all know the story of Erik Karlsson’s wife and his fiance. There was alleged cyberbullying and a disgusting allegation from Karlsson’s wife. However, that was two years ago. Since then, Hoffman and that woman were married.

There hasn’t been another incident like that, so now we can look at Hoffman like a hockey player exclusively. He is a legitimate scoring threat from anywhere on the ice. What more could the Devils ask for in a left wing? They need someone who can finish with Nico Hischier, and Kyle Palmieri can’t be the only one.

Hoffman was well on his way to his second-straight 30-goal season with the Panthers. He had 29 goals in 69 games. Last season, he finished the year with 36 goals. Both campaigns showed he can be a big contributor on the scoreboard. The Devils have players that can get assists. They need goal scorers, and Hoffman would be an intriguing option.

The issue here is the competition the Devils will face for Hoffman’s services. After we saw the insane number Jeff Skinner signed last season, wingers are seeing dollar signs ahead of free agency. Obviously, the global pandemic is going to do major damage to the salary cap, but teams can make a salary that Hoffman demands work. He’s going to ask for a raise from his $5.187 million he’s making right now. He won’t get a big raise, but don’t be surprised if he commands $7 million to the right team. Being one of the best options at the position helps. If he settles in at $6 million, the Devils will be among the teams knocking on his door.