The New Jersey Devils are making moves both on and off the ice, and this week's "Fingerprints Edition" of our hockey roundup is packed with news that every fan needs to know.
Front Office Upgrade
The Devils have officially added Braden Birch as Assistant General Manager, and early reactions are glowing. Birch previously served as director of hockey operations and salary cap management for the Florida Panthers, where his "fingerprints were all over a lot of crafty contract work," according to Infernal Access. For a team looking to build sustained success, bringing in someone with experience from the league's most successful recent franchise is a clear win.
Gritsyuk's RFA Future
Arseny Gritsyuk wrapped up his first NHL season after a five-year stint in the KHL, and while his counting stats might not jump off the page, advanced metrics tell a different story. Devils on the Rush notes that Gritsyuk was actually one of New Jersey's best forwards in 2025-26. Now, as a restricted free agent on an expiring entry-level contract, the big question is: what's the right price for a long-term deal? The Devils have a chance to lock in a hidden gem.
Drafting Philosophy Shift
With Sunny Mehta now running the show, expect a new approach to the draft. Devils' Advocates highlights that Mehta's progressive, analytics-driven mindset will likely change how the team evaluates and selects talent. For a franchise looking to build a contender, this philosophical shift could be the key to finding the next generation of stars.
Around the League
- Boston's Charlie McAvoy has been suspended six games for slashing Buffalo's Zach Benson, a significant hit to the Bruins' blue line.
- The Oilers are reportedly looking to interview Bruce Cassidy for a coaching staff shakeup, but the Golden Knights have blocked permission—an unusual move between division rivals.
- Charlie Coyle's new six-year, $36 million deal with the Blue Jackets includes a full no-movement clause in the first four years, then a 20-team and 10-team no-trade list in years five and six, respectively.
Stanley Cup Final Preview
As we look ahead to June, the potential matchups are heating up. From the least to most intriguing, the possibilities are enough to get any hockey fan's blood pumping. Stay tuned as the playoffs shape up—and don't forget to gear up in your favorite Devils apparel as we ride this wave of change.