For months leading up to the March 8 trade deadline, the New Jersey Devils have been on the hunt for a goalie upgrade. Previously linked to Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames, recent reports suggest they were close to a major trade, this time involving Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators.
According to Jim Biringer of Full Press Hockey, talks ensued between the Devils and the Predators for Saros. Allegedly, the Predators offered Saros and defenseman Alexandre Carrier with 50% salary cap retention, in exchange for Dawson Mercer, Seamus Casey, Akira Schmid, a first-round pick in this year's NHL Draft, and a second-round pick in 2025. However, the Devils declined the offer.
«Barry Trotz asked for Dawson Mercer, Seamus Casey, Akira Schmid, the Devils 2024 first-round pick, and the Devils 2025 2nd pick for Alexandre Carrier, Juuse Saros, with the Predators retaining 50 percent on Carrier,» a source told Full Press Hockey.
Saros has one year remaining on his contract with a $5 million salary cap hit. While the Predators aren't actively shopping him, General Manager Barry Trotz seems open to entertaining offers, although the asking price is evidently high. Trotz has expressed interest in re-signing Saros long-term, but negotiations could be challenging given Saros' expected hefty raise.
During the Devils recent visit to Nashville, Trotz met with Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald, potentially around the time of the failed trade offer for Saros. Trotz remains firm in his stance, seeking a compelling package if he were to consider moving Saros.
