What better way to get some perspective on what New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald is dealing with other than hearing it from someone previously in his shoes?
Well, there really isn’t one. Steve Werier shared his experience in contract negotiations, and how he navigated clauses in contracts. More on that below.
Elsewhere, Mathew Barzal chops down Mason Marchment (literally), Patrick Roy defends his star, and it sounds like the Cats are getting a key piece back soon.
Let’s do that hockey.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: One former NHL assistant general manager shed light on the importance of foresight when negotiating clauses in a players contract. With context that Tom Fitzgerald is struggling to shed salary, here’s what the former Cats AGM had to say.
Devils Rink Report: Steve Werier joined me on the latest Devils Rink Report to discuss his experience in negotiating contracts, and how his structure was beneficial for the Florida Panthers down the line 👇🏼
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NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now
Mathew Barzal is almost certainly going to hear from the NHLs Department of Player Safety. After Mason Marchment seemingly met Matthew Schaefer with a knee, the New York Islanders star forward would not stand for it.
Islanders head coach, Patrick Roy, backed his players on their actions—which should come as a surprise to no one.
Personally? I side with Barzal on this one. You go after the star player, expect to feel it in return.
Forever Blueshirts: Remember former NHL defenseman, Dave Karpa? Well, his son was drafted by the New York Rangers, and he scored his first professional hockey goal in the American Hockey League.
Florida Hockey Now: Well, well, well. Look who is back on the ice. Matthew Tkachuk is ramping things up, and his return to the Panthers is nearing.
Philly Hockey Now: Sounds like the Philadelphia Flyers are heading towards an extension with one key forward, while running the risk of losing a younger skater.
Montreal Hockey Now: Clearly, the Tampa Bay Lightning didn’t have a wild enough night with the Panthers on Saturday, mixing it up again—this time with the Montreal Canadiens—on Sunday.
James is the New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on Sportsnaut and the PHWAs New … More about James Nichols