I agree, Devils decline without extension

If the extension is in place you think this happens? Obviously makes sense for Devils, but I think this is a perfect move for the Jets.

Devils decline either way I think.

Severson and the first are a real good start. The Jets would probably want someone else other than Zacha though as 3C isn't a need.

You don't think the potential is there for Zacha to be the future 2C? He's been steadily improving every year.

24-32 points across 4 seasons doesn't scream steadily improving to a 2C level to me. The Jets are giving up a sure-fire guaranteed young first line winger, I would think they would want a more sure thing in return.

His growth has been stunted. He's been moved around all over the line up. I expected him to take Zajac's job by now but it never happened.

I think you are also forgetting that the biggest asset is the 7th pick. Assuming they didn't want to take Drysdale or Sanderson here, they could easily be getting Holtz, Rossi who you could make a good argument will get to Laine's level.

Put yourself in Winnipeg's shoes. If Laine had been in NJ while he was scoring 30-40 goals every year and it was time for us to trade him, would you be cool with Severson and Zacha as the return? I wouldn't be and I like Severson. Then you get into whether NJD should be giving up the 7OA for a guy who could walk after a year and wouldn't be interested in sticking around past his UFA point either way. Part of his issue in WPG seems to be that he wants to play with Scheiffle all of the time or at least more than he currently does and I'm skeptical he'd be all that enthusiastic about NJD's centers.