The New Jersey Devils have added another impact forward. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports that the Devils have acquired Patrick Maroon from the Edmonton Oilers. The return is a 2019 third-round pick and a prospect. Edmonton beat writer Jim Matheson adds that the prospect is Boston College center J.D. Dudek.
New Jersey adds even more firepower after adding Michael Grabner last week. Maroon, 29, has 30 points on the year for a struggling Oilers squad, but finished with 42 in 2016-17 in a much more cohesive offensive unit. Jumping into a talented Devils forward corps, Maroon’s size and ability to crash the net will add another dimension and should mesh well with the group.
In a tough Metropolitan Division, the Devils have done enough to stay relevant and challenge for a divisional berth and a postseason run. Without having to give up a first-round pick or top prospect, GM Ray Shero has added two of the top forwards on the trade market in what was a skilled manipulation of the deadline.
Not for nothing, but Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston is already reporting that Maroon has said he would like to return to Edmonton when he hits free agency this summer.
Still can’t help it……..All I can hear is Bugs Bunny saying “what a maroon!”……..
So a much smaller return than the Nash trade?
Much it appears.
Yes. Most people should know that Maroon’s numbers have been a product of him playing alongside McDavid. Not saying he can’t contribute in New Jersey, but it likely won’t be at the level that he was producing in Edmonton.