Pucks and Pitchforks
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Pucks and Pitchforks Official Trade Deadline Predictions

By Nick Villano

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 26: Kyle Palmieri #21 of the New Jersey Devils yells at Kevin Hayes #13 of the Philadelphia Flyers at the end of the second period at the Prudential Center on January 26, 2021 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 26: Kyle Palmieri #21 of the New Jersey Devils yells at Kevin Hayes #13 of the Philadelphia Flyers at the end of the second period at the Prudential Center on January 26, 2021 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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New Jersey Devils
New Jersey Devils defenseman Dmitry Kulikov (70): (Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports) /

Dmitry Kulikov

Nick Villano: It just seems to make the most sense to send Dmitry Kulikov north of the border. There are Canadian teams that could use depth defensemen as they all take each other out in the North Division. Pride is on the line more than ever as the Canadian teams will try and come out of the division, guaranteeing the land of hockey a spot in the final four. The Winnipeg Jets are going to overpay to bring back someone who was there just last season.

Vinnie Parise: Kulikov has been a pleasant surprise for the Devils this season. That is why they should move him while his trade value is this high. Selling high on him would be fantastic asset management.

David Lebovitz: The problem with Kulikov is that there are too many options. Nearly every team in the league can find the cap space for his $1.15m contract and the actual literal space on their bench for a third pair dman. As such, I’m not going to guess what he can or will land. I will, however, guess the return: either a solo 2nd-round pick or a third plus a fifth.

Charlie Borges Jr.: Kulikov has thrived in Lindy Ruff‘s system. He may not put up any offensive numbers, but he has certainly benefited defensively. A lot of teams will look for a player of Kulikov’s ability to replace an injured defenseman. He would be a great depth add for a lot of teams out there. Kulikov will be traded to the Florida Panthers for a 3rd round pick.

Rob DeLuca: My most recent article will tell you how I feel about moving Kulikov. The way he is playing right now has his value at an all-time high and New Jersey should be able to get a very good price for him. He will be traded and there is hope that he can be re-signed if not extended by his new team.

Andy Studna: This one is pretty easy for me. Kulikov has been fantastic for the Devils this year; RE-SIGN HIM. I get that Kulikov could always be replaced and could easily be brought back as a UFA over the summer, but I wouldn’t even risk it. I’m sure the Devils like having him around and I’m sure he’s aware of the success he’s had here. The Russian-born defender signs an extension for two years with an AAV of $1.5 million, a slight raise from his current deal.

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