The New Jersey Devils could really use someone like Adam Henrique on the wing. The fact that he can play both wing and center is something that could make him so useful to this squad. Playing on a team that has fans that adore him so much might also help him with his confidence which could, in turn, help him score more. He was a driving offensive force for Anaheim in 2019-20 as he had 26 goals and 17 assists for 43 points during the pandemic shortened season.
If the Ducks sent Adam Henrique over to New Jersey for Will Butcher, that could really help them out as well. Butcher hasn’t played a single game for New Jersey yet this season and you have to wonder why. He is a decent offensive defenseman that can’t defend. There are some good defensive defensemen on the New Jersey Devils to pair up with him but they just aren’t having it right now. It is going to become even harder for him when Sami Vatanen is back in the mix.
If Butcher went to Anaheim, it is almost certain that he would play. They are not very good at all and they could give him a look if they feel the need to add an offensive defenseman. He could run a power play if given the opportunity so a change of scenery could go a long way for him. This seems to be a trade that is best suited as a “one for one” based on the nature of their seasons so far.
This is something that would help offset the salaries. The Devils are paying Butcher $3.73 million AAV. In total dollars, he’s going to make $4.1 million next season. Henrique’s salary of $5.825 million is hefty, but losing Butcher’s salary will help in the short term.