They're Still Left: Who Could The New Jersey Devils Target for PTOs?

Zach Berman opens the episode reflecting on the slow free agency market and the notable number of established NHL players still without contracts heading into mid-August. He highlights several forwards who might fit the New Jersey Devils' needs, such as Eeli Tolvanen—who remains unsigned despite solid underlying metrics and a productive previous season. Other available names include Patrick Laine, Vladimir Tarasenko, Michael Bunting, Nick Blankenberg, James van Riemsdyk, David Perron, and former Devil Adam Henrique, though Zach Berman expresses mixed opinions on whether each would truly help the team’s roster 00:01:10-00:08:23.

Turning to defense and goaltending, Zach Berman notes the potential for PTO (Professional Tryout) invitations to bolster organizational depth, mentioning that the Devils might consider bringing in someone like Connor Ingram—a goalie with recent playoff experience and a background of overcoming adversity. He also discusses the possibility of veteran blueliners such as Mike Reilly, adding that injuries on the back end last season demonstrated the importance of reliable defensive depth 00:12:16-00:15:23.

Zach Berman lists additional free agents who could theoretically be targeted for PTOs, including Matt Murray, Pavol Regenda, Jeff Petry, Calle Järnkrok, Jesse Puljujärvi, Riley Smith, and Matt Grzelcyk. He stresses that while the Devils have options available, they may not be particularly aggressive in pursuing any of these players, possibly choosing to leave cap space open for future opportunities or trade deadline moves—hinting at the ongoing rumors around a possible pursuit of Connor Hellebuyck but noting it seems unlikely at this stage 00:16:23-00:18:44.

The episode wraps up with brief updates on staff changes within the Devils organization and some lighter commentary on offseason news, including fan culture and upcoming schedule highlights. Zach Berman invites listeners to participate in the conversation by suggesting which PTO candidates or remaining free agents they’d like to see the Devils pursue, underscoring the unusually deep market of available talent as the new season approaches 00:19:09-00:26:45.

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