New Jersey Devils: Ranking 10 Best Free Agent Fits

1. Brenden Dillon

Another defenseman that would fit the Devils needs perfectly, Brenden Dillon would be the best possible option for the Devils in free agency. He plays that crucial left side, he’s exceeded when given a bigger role, and he’s under 30 years old (even if he won’t be when the season starts). Reports say the Washington Capitals are trying to move money to keep him, but with less than a week until free agency, it will be hard to keep him.

His cost is interesting. He made $3.9 million last season. Even with the uncertainty on the salary cap, he will want to make a little more. It likely won’t be a lot more like a Torey Krug, but it could be closer to $4.5 million. If the Capitals let him go to market, the Devils must come up with that kind of dough.

Dillon was one of the few brights spots on a trash bag of a Sharks team this season. He was eventually traded to the Caps for their stretch run. They gave up two picks (2020 2nd rounder and 2021 3rd rounder) to bring him to Washington. They will want him back, but if they can’t make the money work, the Devils sure can.

This is a no brainer for the Devils. He fits their needs, he has some time left in his prime as a defenseman, and he could fit with Subban. He doesn’t fit as well as Brodie would, but for the price, it makes a lot more sense.