New Jersey Devils: 5 Players To Consider From Pittsburgh Penguins

Brian Dumoulin

The New Jersey Devils have a desperate need for help on the left side of their defense, and Brian Dumoulin is a legitimate top-line player who could immediately slot in next to P.K. Subban. He’s making $4.1 million per season, so it would get the Penguins some necessary cap space as they try to sign both of their goalies this offseason.

This trade might cost the Devils a lot, despite the fact the Penguins have some really good, young defensemen to replace him. Marcus Petterson could immediately slot into Dumoulin’s position, as his five-year extension with a major raise goes into effect at the same time. Not saying that pay rate should dictate slotting, but it would make a lot of sense for the Penguins.

The Devils can’t get Dumoulin for free, despite the cap situation the Penguins find themselves in. He’s going to cost some assets, but it can be done. The Penguins need to make changes after two-straight disappointing showings in the playoffs and making moves on defense seem likely. Obviously, that starts with getting rid of the albatross that is Jack Johnson on the blue line, but it likely doesn’t stop there. Johnson’s buyout isn’t that bad, and if the Devils considered trading for him to buy him out to get more draft assets, it wouldn’t be that bad.

This would be the best of the moves the Devils can make with the Penguins. This fills the Devils most pressing need, takes on money, and brings a 28 year old with a proven track record onto the team. It feels like it might make sense for everyone, too, if the Penguins are willing to make such a move.