Could the New Jersey Devils Consider Trading Nico Hischier This Offseason?

With his contract having one year remaining, Nico Hischier is eligible for an extension. The question arises: could he be traded this offseason if negotiations with the new management don't go smoothly?

On "The Chris Johnston Show," Chris Johnston discussed the potential for the New Jersey Devils to consider trading forward Nico Hischier, who has one year left on his current contract.

Julien McKenzie speculated that this summer might be the time for New Jersey to make significant changes through a trade. He suggested that missing out on a player like Quinn Hughes could fuel an appetite for a big move.

Johnston pointed out that Hischier is one year away from free agency. McKenzie elaborated, hinting that if the Devils decide not to extend Hischier for any reason, he would be their centerpiece in any trade if they aim for a successful outcome.

Johnston believes this is what Hischier might want, as all the leverage has shifted to the player. He stated that understanding Hischier's stance on an extension and its potential cost would likely be a top priority for the new leadership in New Jersey. The choice is either to finalize an extension or trade him, as he doesn't imagine them entering a "lame duck" year with him, which doesn't seem to be the emerging trend in the league.

Johnston drew parallels to other pending UFAs, noting that while Quinn Hughes might be an exception due to his recent arrival in Minnesota, players like Cale Makar will also be one year from UFA status this summer. He anticipates the Avalanche will sign Makar, with no indication he wishes to test the market.

He suggested that for players eligible to become UFAs in 2027, the summer of 2026 will be crucial: either an extension is signed, or a trade is discussed. The same logic would apply to players eligible in 2028, including stars like McDavid and Matthews.

McKenzie urged to not get ahead of oneself. Johnston, however, emphasized that the league's evolving landscape suggests fewer top players will reach unrestricted free agency. The year before a player can hit the market essentially becomes their "UFA window," leading to a trade-or-sign scenario.

McKenzie commented that given the rapid pace of recent moves, if players had the opportunity, some might have preferred to sign extensions sooner rather than waiting for July 1st.

Johnston concluded that the decision regarding Hischier is likely to be made sooner than anticipated. He will either sign an extension with New Jersey this summer – the date not necessarily being July 1st but any day he chooses – or he will likely be dealt. He also noted that with a weak upcoming free-agent class and the premium value of centers, many notable teams would be actively seeking a player of Hischier's caliber. If a trade occurs, Hischier would hold immense value as a trade piece.