Sell now if you are smart

If they sell, I don't see why a ufa like Severson would want to sign unless he's getting paid well (6M+, max term).

Guys like Toews and Haula probably aren't going to find WPG attractive for those salaries either. The FAs that would probably be available are guys who will just be looking for a job and unqualified RFAs.

Unlike Graves, Severson is a homegrown Devil. He was drafted by New Jersey in 2012 and has played all of his 647 career games in a Devils' uniform. When he spoke about his pending free agency during his end-of-season media availability, he said, "It's just a really weird time. That's the only way I can put it."

Severson saw his role change this season. For the past several seasons, he was heavily relied upon and led his team in time on ice. This past season he had the fourth-highest ice time behind Hamilton, Marino, and Siegenthaler. For most of this season, he was part of the team's third defensive pair and had a rotation of partners, including Brendan Smith, Kevin Bahl, and Siegenthaler.

During his last interview of the 2022-23 season, Severson was asked what it would mean to remain in New Jersey to continue his career.

"It'd be great. This is all I've known, so it's kind of a weird situation for me."

"When I pull up to the rink every day and drive the same route every day for so long, it just makes you appreciate it," he said. "You never know when the last time will be, so you just look forward to each day coming in and doing your job and go from there."

For the first time in his career, the Melville native is part of a blue line with immense depth and young star players ready to take the next steps and prove they belong in the NHL. For what lies ahead, Severson said he has his agent in place to handle the contractual stuff whenever it comes about.

Severson has long been linked to Winnipeg.
I believe his dad ("Big Sevo") had even said it once that he may want to go back and play there.

And from most I have seen, read or heard....it sounds like he wants max term in a city he feels comfortable playing in. You can just hear it in the way he talks about it...its not a guy who will be seeking the limelight or chasing top dollar. Quotes from his exit interview....