Shero will then take that glut of quality prospect defensemen and use them to fill needs. While in Pittsburgh he traded Ryan Whitney (to acquire Chris Kunitz), Alex Goligoski and Joe Morrow (James Neal). Don’t be surprised to see one of the “Big 4” young defensemen traded by the Devils this summer in order to fill a need. Especially considering Larsson and Gelinas are both RFAs. 

Potentially, there could be a lot of housecleaning this summer. And with a new GM around for the first time in decades, this is New Jersey’s chance to stop being so loyal. Michael Ryder, Scott Gomez, Jordin Tootoo, Steve Bernier and Martin Havlat are the forwards who are set to become UFAs. Tuomo Ruutu has just one year left at $5 million – a buyout candidate. And if Ryane Clowe (three more years at $4.85M per) is put on long-term IR, the Shero will have a clean slate with which to work with. 

Some interesting times ahead, and I think it will be a busy summer right off the bat.