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The New Jersey Devils' roster is undoubtedly better today than a year ago but it's still far from perfect.
Their defense could use some work as, in particular, they need someone who can move the puck.
While the chance to add an impact defender has long passed there are still a few guys available in free agency who could potentially help the Devils out in that regard. These players would probably be willing to come to camp on a tryout basis, too.
Let's take a look at a few.
David Rundblad
Rundblad is a 6'2', right-handed defensemen who has 113 NHL games to his name. He has bounced around a fair bit, and taken a beating for being a little too prone to the big mistake, but he has consistently posted good underlying numbers and probably deserves a shot somewhere. He wouldn't put up a ton of points, I don't think, but he could help the Devils transition from defense to offense.
Marek Zidlicky
Zidlicky also tends to make head scratching plays a little more than anyone would like. He has had some injury problems as well. In saying that he has a ton of experience, is familiar with the organization and can still shoot/move the puck. Giving him a look in camp could do no harm and if Steve Santini, for example, doesn't prove to be ready Zidlicky could be a good stop gap option.
Jakub Nakladal
I've pumped Nakladal's tires quite a bit in this space but I feel he could be a worthwhile addition. His underlying numbers were very good for the Flames down the stretch and, over a small sample size, he showed the ability to move the puck and create offensive opportunities for teammates.
Raphael Diaz
Diaz has posted respectable offensive numbers (49 points in 201 NHL games) and his best qualities are moving the puck and running a power play. He is nothing special and his game has some holes but, again, the Devils could use some more puck moving ability on defense and Diaz is someone who could potentially help.
There is obviously no guarantee the Devils have interest in these players - nor that they're willing to accept tryouts - but given the team's lack of puck movers I think they'd be smart to take a look.
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