The New Jersey Devils are talking about making changes this offseason after a disappointing first year under head coach Sheldon Keefe. The Devils did make the playoffs, which was something, but they expected more. Of course, the injuries really hampered their ability to compete with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Even considering the injuries, the Devils' issues were creeping in well before they started filling the injury list. The offense was a problem, and it starts with their centers. Jack Hughes was the biggest injury, and his absence forced the Devils to change their entire philosophy. Nico Hischier now had to be more of an offensive driver, and he became the only top-line that the Devils had. Erik Haula and Curtis Lazar fell off the map. Justin Dowling was playing way above his head. Dawson Mercer clearly didn't want to be in the middle and wanted to play wing.
They have to find upgrades at center this offseason. They can't melt whenever Hischier or Hughes fall out of the lineup.
That's where an interesting option for a surprising price could fall into their lap. Jonathan Toews is a former top player in the NHL, but he hasn't taken a faceoff since the 2022-23 season. After two years away from the game, Toews is ready to return. He had issues with long COVID, but he says he's ready to resume his hockey career.
Toews has always made sense for the Devils. When he announced he was stepping away to get his health right, we said the Devils should keep him on speed dial. Even last year, the Devils should have explored this option. However, Toews himself might not have been ready to go.
With Jonathan Toews reportedly exploring a return, it's time for the Devils to pick up the phone.
Of course, Toews's resume speaks for itself. He's a three-time Stanley Cup champ who led the Blackhawks into a dynasty. The Devils don't need that version of Toews. However, if they can get someone like a late-era Joe Thornton, that would be amazing.
Thornton was good for 40-50 points during his late 30s. Great. That would be by far the best bottom-six center the Devils have had in a while if Toews is able to hit those numbers. Another reason why Toews would be a great addition is his prowess in the faceoff circle. In Toews's last year in the NHL, he led the league in faceoff percentage, winning more than 63% of his draws.
Of course, it's a risk with his health. However, Toews was dealing with symptoms during his last year in Chicago, and he still played fine. Toews likely won't cost much as he tries to take a one-year deal to prove he's worth more. Fitzgerald should be looking at these types of moves that have really good upside without spending cap space.