New York Islanders Metropolitan Division Stronger After Free Agency

New Jersey Devils

The New Jersey Devils haven’t been much of a threat the last couple of years. They had the number one overall pick in this year’s draft to give you some perspective. They ended up using that pick on Nico Hischier who is expected to make the team this year.

In addition to the number one overall pick, the Devils used free agency and trades to improve. First, in free agency, they signed Brian Boyle to a pretty reasonable two-year $5.1 million deal. Boyle is a very solid bottom six forward.

New Jersey Devils Off-Season Moves:

He put up 25 points with a mix of Tampa Bay and Toronto last year. He’s tall, he’s big and he’s annoying but if he’s on your team you love him. Then there was the trade with Washington.

The Devils acquired Marcus Johansson for a second and third round pick, an absolute steal for a guy who has put up 40 points in each of the last four seasons. He will fit in very nicely with what the Devils are working with.

They certainly improved but I don’t think they are ready to compete just yet. It’s safe to assume New Jersey won’t be picking number one overall, but it may be too much of a stretch to think they’re ready to compete for a playoff spot in the strong Metropolitan Division just yet.