Power Ranking New Jersey Devils Goalie Targets
By Nick Villano
4. Elvis Merzlikins
Columbus Blue Jackets
This one is a relatively new name on the list. The Columbus Blue Jackets are once again at the end of the NHL Standings. Like the Devils once had to do, the Jackets are looking to get the most out of their assets right now. Merzlikins is an interesting asset. He's going to turn 30 later this season. He has three seasons left on his contract after this one, paying him $5.4 million per year. The Blue Jackets aren't in the right spot, just like John Gibson was on the wrong team for too long.
It makes sense why the Blue Jackets would want to offload Merlikins now. However, does that mean the Devils should want to target Merlikins?
Again, the Devils need to find the right goalie. Merzlikins has been amazing when it comes to special teams. He's saved 7.57 goals above average on the penalty kill. That leads the league! However, his 5v5 GSAA is worse than Akira Schmid's.
The Devils need consistency. Merzlikins is incredibly inconsistent. He's always been pretty inconsistent. The fact he got this massive contract out of the Blue Jackets is going to be their issue to bear.