The writing is on the wall in New Jersey, where the Devils have pulled Kyle Palmieri from game action. His agent says it is in “anticipation of a trade” in the coming days, meaning he is going to be on the move before the April 12 deadline.
But where will he end up? Palmieri is one of the most attractive rentals on the market, coming off five straight seasons with at least 24 goals. While his numbers are down this season, he still has 17 points in 34 games which tied him for third among Devils forwards heading into today’s action (Travis Zajac and Jack Hughes broke that tie with points in the afternoon game).
The fact is no one on the Devils has been that effective offensively this season, suggesting that Palmieri could potentially regain his goal-scoring form if added to a contender at the deadline. Whether those contenders can afford him is another story.
With a $4.65MM cap hit, Palmieri isn’t the easiest player to fit in under a flat salary cap. Sure, the Devils could retain up to half of that deal, but that likely drives the cost of acquisition up even further. He also holds a modified no-trade clause which allows Palmieri to block deals to eight clubs, though it is unclear which teams are on it or whether he would be willing to waive it.
So where do you think he’ll end up? Cast your vote below and explain your thoughts in the comments down below.
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I am going to predict Palmeiri to the Panthers for Borgstrom and a 2 or to the Islanders for Bellows and a 2.
Islanders just makes too much sense. But it also feels like a situation Pittsburg would be in on. Or even Edmonton.
Let’s go off the board.
Avalanche
Surprised Jersey couldn’t sign him. They need him. He’s local. They have tons of cap space. They have no one in their system ready to replace him. They are unlikely to get a lot for him in trade.
Maybe his agent was squeezing them, but this seems like a misstep by NJ.
Bellows and a 2? Doesnt even scratch the surface. Trade a guy who cant crack the lineup. Throw in uncle leo and JHS while your at it. Then the devils trade for a guy who isnt here, They will get a one for Palmieri.