New Jersey Devils: Realistic Atlantic Division Trade Targets

Part three of this four-part series discusses some potential trade candidates for the New Jersey Devils from the National Hockey League’s Atlantic Division. The Atlantic Division boasts some of the brightest names and tremendous talent the league offers. Perhaps one or some of these bright, talented players will find their way to New Jersey via trade this summer.

Without further ado, let’s have some fun. Leading things off for the Atlantic Division will be the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Tampa Bay Lightning: Ross Colton 

This one has been well documented and goes way back for Ross Colton. A Robbinsville, New Jersey native, Colton grew up a die-hard Devils fan. At an autograph signing in the summer of 2022, Colton spoke to Ryan Novozinsky of NJ Advance Media, reminisced on his childhood Devils fandom.

"“Down the road, if I could throw on the (Devils) sweater one day, that would be awesome.”"

Colton, who is an RFA this summer, could potentially have that dream become a reality if the Devils see a fit with the 26-year-old center. Colton would add a sandpaper element to the Devils lineup and has found an ability to find the back of the net as well, scoring 38 goals over the last two seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Who doesn’t love a gritty hometown kid? Ross Colton would be a great addition to this current Devils squad.