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I was looking at who the Devils have signed for next season, and what their depth chart looks like, and one thing really stood out: New Jersey doesn't have a right winger under contract for next year. Not one.
All of Martin Havlat, Michael Ryder, Steve Bernier and Jordin Tootoo are set to become unrestricted free agents in July, and it's certain the former two won't be back. It's possible only one of the latter two are re-signed, too, and even if both are retained the Devils would still be without a top-6 right winger.
Lou Lamoriello has talked about scouring the trade market in hopes of bringing in some help, and it seems likely he will do just that.
Lamoriello also hasn't ruled out the possibility of trading their 1st round pick for immediate help, as he did a couple years back in acquiring Cory Schneider.
In exit meetings Lamoriello noted that the Devils have cap space, so fitting a big ticket under their cap should not be a problem.
While I wouldn't move the 6th overall pick - a case can be made for or against it - I can't help but shake the feeling Lamoriello is going to trade the pick.
It just so happens that the Devils biggest need - a goal scoring winger, ideally on the right side - will be available this summer, as Phil Kessel's days in Toronto appear to be numbered.
I've already written about the possibility of acquiring Kessel, which doesn't seem unrealistic. Say what you want about him, but he would certainly fill a big need.
Should the Devils decide to keep the pick, which is also very possible, there could be other right wingers available at a cheaper price. Loui Eriksson could be a trade option, while Michael Frolik may make sense if the Devils wish to dip their feet into the free agent market.
One way or another, Lamoriello has to address the team's top-6 forward crop this summer -- particularly on the right side.
It will be interesting to see how he goes about doing so.
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