Sam Woo: Thoughts on Day One of Devils 2021 Free Agency

For a team that is still below the salary cap floor - sending a 5th to take Will Butcher is not required. If for some reason, they need Cap space later, they could bury his money in the minors (Where he could serve as a living, breathing example to the younger players of what not to do when you get to the NHL) Prediction - he has a good season next year in Buffalo, and Devils fans are female doging that we got nothing for him.

Jersey is now a destination able to attract talent who has visions of winning!

Saad next?

Saad next?
- WayneZ

NOPE.

For a team that is still below the salary cap floor - sending a 5th to take Will Butcher is not required. If for some reason, they need Cap space later, they could bury his money in the minors (Where he could serve as a living, breathing example to the younger players of what not to do when you get to the NHL) Prediction - he has a good season next year in Buffalo, and Devils fans are female doging that we got nothing for him.
- ChipArm

This seems like an internal budget decision more then a hockey decision. If we had kept Butcher he likely could have been traded after the season started and injuries occur. Not saying we would have gotten anything of value for him, but maybe not pay someone to take him.

That said, it's no biggie either way.

Jersey is now a destination able to attract talent who has visions of winning!
- Devils Advocate

I think it's more likely the money more then winning....but we'll get there.

No team wants to have a 3.7M player sitting in the press box. I wish Butcher the best in Buffalo!

I think it's more likely the money more then winning....but we'll get there.
- Queenie_5_hole

Maybe in 30 more years they’ll make the playoffs

the problem with thit is if you ever want to sign a Ufa or college player again you must take care of your signings and treat these players correctly.

Giving Butcher another shot with another team is much better for the player than burying him in the minors.

Although worse for NJD this is what must be done f you want to continue being the CLASS organization teams want to sign with ...