Assessing Every New Jersey Devils Free Agent Decision
Jesper Bratt
Jesper Bratt had another great season tying his career high in points and beating it in goals. Bratt and his agent also made it rather clear last negotiation that they wanted big money, and the team was not willing to give it to him just yet. This will probably be the hardest negotiation as he comes off the $5.4 million dollar deal. After his strong regular season, he had an awful playoff. This might make the negotiation even harder. His only playoff goal was an empty netter. He is a key piece moving forward though, and if he wants to win, he will at least be somewhat agreeable when it comes to his salary. Bratt has also never been a point-per-game player. Though he is only 24, this deal might feel bad for a lot of fans after the tough negotiations.
Prediction: 6-8 years $8 million AAV
Timo Meier
Timo Meier had a 40 goals for the first time in his career this season. The guy was snake-bitten in the playoffs but played well overall. His heavy game is something this team lacked in the top six in a big way. When he gets in a full season next to Nico Hischier or Jack Hughes, he could explode in points. He might even challenge for 50 goals. Just like Bratt, he has never been a point-per-game guy. Despite that, he is expecting a big payday. Because of those other noted things, spending on him shouldn’t be a problem. Even though he is not the best player due to the nature of contract negotiations, expect he will be the highest-paid forward on the team shortly.
Prediction: 8 years $8.5 million AAV
Yegor Sharangovich
Yegor Sharangovich had some rough deployment this season, moving around the lineup far too much. He faired much worse year than he should have. It is very hard to tell what the team or coach thinks of him, but he plays solid on both ends of the rink and can kill penalties. He needs a play-driver at center like most snipers in the league. Given the opportunity, he can be a 30-goal scorer, but it is hard to tell if the organization sees it that way. Expect this to be a show-me-style bridge deal.