6. Trading Alex Holtz/Akira Schmid for Paul Cotter
This one has a big chance for variance both to move higher or lower on this list. Alexander Holtz and Akira Schmid both could dominate in Vegas after they were traded for Paul Cotter and a draft pick, but that’s not really the point here. This is about getting a player who fits in the lineup, and Holtz/Schmid no longer fit what the Devils were trying to do. The Devils would rather go after a guarantee in the bottom six than gamble on a possible top-six scorer. They decided that Cotter, who does have upside himself, was more valuable to this franchise than Holtz (and Schmid, who had fallen out of favor). Cotter could have a huge impact on this team as he did with Vegas at times (playing with the likes of Mark Stone and William Karlsson for much of his ice time).
7. Signing Stefan Noesen
This feels like it’s “same church, different pew” when it comes to the impact on today’s NHL roster. Stefan Noesen is clearly not the player he was when he was on the Devils half a decade ago. He has grown into a very crucial role on NHL rosters, one that made him a fan favorite and clutch player in Carolina. His impact will be very similar to Cotter’s. He’s here to provide offensive upside to a player who goes to dirty areas, wins in the corners, and isn’t afraid to step up for his star teammates. Noesen doesn’t spend a lot of time playing with his star teammates; instead, he spends most of his time with Jack Drury and Jesperi Kotkaniemi. That’s setting up to play next to Ondrej Palat and Erik Haula next season.