Conflicting reports regarding Simon Nemec surfaced late last week, creating uncertainty around the young defenseman’s future. The 22-year-old New Jersey Devils prospect is approaching the end of his entry-level contract and will be eligible for restricted free agency on July 1.
James Nichols of New Jersey Hockey Now initially cited an overseas report suggesting that Nemec had requested a trade, further claiming that Devils GM Sunny Mehta had not been in communication with the player or his representatives. However, Nichols later noted that sources disputed the claim regarding the lack of contact from management. Additionally, Slovakian hockey insider Tomas Prokop used social media to explicitly debunk the rumors of a trade request.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet corroborated that the trade rumors were inaccurate, stating that Nemec has not requested a move. Friedman believes the young defenseman intends to stay in New Jersey, though the outcome will ultimately depend on the progress of contract negotiations. Should Nemec unexpectedly become available, the Boston Bruins could emerge as a primary suitor; Nick Goss of NBC Sports Boston noted that the Bruins’ blue line would benefit significantly from Nemec’s speed, puck-moving skills, and offensive upside.
Inside New Jersey Devils GM Sunny Mehta’s First Month — and What Comes Next
On April 21, New Jersey Devils and WFAN play-by-play announcer Matt Loughlin introduced Sunny Mehta as the sixth general manager in team history.
In Dallas, the Stars are prioritizing a new contract for RFA left winger Jason Robertson. However, the team’s tight salary cap situation may present further complications this summer. Harman Dayal of The Athletic recently identified the Stars as one of several NHL franchises whose limited cap flexibility could force them to move key players.
While the Stars are expected to trade one or two assets to clear room for Robertson, securing a new deal for Mavrik Bourque may prove difficult. Bourque, an RFA with arbitration rights, is coming off a career year in which he recorded 41 points (20 goals, 21 assists) in 82 games. Given his versatility as both a center and winger, Dayal suggests Bourque could be a prime target for an offer sheet. He noted that the Stars might struggle to match a $4.77 million offer, which would only require a second-round pick as compensation.
Devon Levi Appears To Be The Odd Man Out In Buffalo’s Crowded Goalie Situation
The 24-year-old played 52 games for AHL Rochester last season.
Meanwhile, speculation continues regarding the Buffalo Sabres’ goaltending situation, with rumors suggesting Devon Levi could be traded. ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reported that the Ottawa Senators have expressed interest in the 24-year-old. Having fallen behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Alex Lyon, and Colten Ellis on the depth chart, a trade could offer Levi more consistent playing time. Other potential destinations include the Philadelphia Flyers, while David Staples of the Edmonton Journal has included Levi on a list of potential goaltending targets for the Edmonton Oilers.
