Even though camp has just begun, we already have a pretty good idea on how the lines are gonna shake out. Come October 4th, the forward lines will likely be:
Meier-Hughes-Bratt
Tatar-Hischier-Mercer
Palat-Haula-Noesen
Cotter-Lazar-Bastian
The question then becomes who the 13th forward will be. IMO, it’s between 2 guys: Nolan Foote and Kevin Labanc. While Labanc may be the better player today, the Devils have to consider how much they value Foote. Fitzgerald spoke highly of Foote after the 22-23 season and essentially had him penciled in for a roster spot in 23-24 before he got injured. Foote was okay in the few games he played at the end of last year, but it’s hard to get a gauge considering the extent on his injury. Ideally, I think the Devils wouldn’t mind if Foote got more AHL games this year in Utica to work back from his injury, but they may not have that luxury. Foote is no longer waiver exempt meaning he must pass through waivers before reporting to Utica. It wouldn’t be a shock at all for someone to take a chance on Foote especially considering his low AAV on a 1 year deal. What does everyone think? Bank on the potential of Foote or sign the veteran Labanc?
by Devsfan25
4 Comments
Im worried its gonna be Macdermid
I wouldn’t hold my breath on Foote.
His injury is the same back injury he’s been dealing with since junior 5 years ago.
https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/players/new-jersey-devils-nolan-foote-i-want-to-stick-around-here-and-be-with-this-organization-tom-fitzgerald
Not a fan of just giving Jack everyone. We dont need to stack one line which Keefe loves to do. Remember Timo was good once he was with Nico. Also Mercer wasnt good when he was with Nico last year. Nostalgia glasses off. Also NJ needs size and Foote fits that but im not a fan of him.
Not that it really matters but my guess would be Shane Bowers or Max Willman. Center depth is valuable.