New Jersey Devils want top-six forward upgrade, trade calls open for Simon Nemec
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Daniel Lucente
Mar 4, 2026 (9:39)
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Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Report on X says the Devils are taking calls on Simon Nemec, a 22-year-old 2022 1st round, No. 2 pick, with a $918,333 cap hit, if it brings a top-six forward back.
That is not "shopping him." That is New Jersey doing deadline math with a young RD who still screams upside.
Nemec was drafted in 2022, first round, second overall, by the New Jersey Devils, and teams never stop asking about that kind of talent.
He is also on the final year of his entry-level deal, with no trade protection, and he hits RFA status after 2025-26.
On the ice, he has 9-12-21 in 47 games this season, playing real minutes and not hiding from hard touches.
"Devils are taking calls on the second overall pick from '22. No shortage of teams checking in."
- Pierre LeBrun
- Pierre LeBrun
So why even listen? Because the Devils can skate on the blue line, but they still need more finishing in the top six when games tighten up.
This is the opportunity for other teams. You are not buying a rental, you are buying a controllable, right-shot defender entering his prime runway.
Simon Nemec could reshape the New Jersey Devils
Devils fans are going to hate the idea, but you can feel the "only do it for a hammer" mood in the room.
New Jersey has been linked to big-game swings before, and Nemec's name has floated in broader trade chatter around the league.
If you are a contender with scoring but a thin right side, he is a clean fit. He moves pucks fast, closes gaps early, and helps your transition play instantly.
For New Jersey, the ask is simple: a forward who upgrades their attack "In a real way," not a bundle of maybes.
If a team actually meets that price, the Nemec sweepstakes might be the deadline's loudest domino.
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Vincent Trocheck's no-trade list just narrowed the Rangers market
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| POLL | ||
MARS 4|99 ANSWERS New Jersey Devils want top-six forward upgrade, trade calls open for Simon Nemec Should a team trade for Simon Nemec this season? | ||
| Yes | 68 | 68.7 % |
| No | 31 | 31.3 % |
| List of polls | ||