Would love Tarasenko in NJ but I don't think I'd move Graves right now, Devils need his shutdown ability.

Graves and Parayko on the same pairing? That's a lot of ground being covered. I also don't think Armstrong would trade Tarasenko for anything less than a 1st of some sort.

Devils wouldn't do that

100%. I opted to go with a 2nd as opposed to a 1st due to Scandella being included in the deal. We need that contract off the books sooner than later. In this scenario with AZ retaining 50%, I could see NJ taking that on while not having to give up as much for Tarasenko. Graves would be hard for them to replace.

That's the rub, NJ won't be able to replace Graves & they are otherwise lacking viable Blueline depth. Assuming they want to remain competitive, I cant see NJ trading Graves.

Perhaps hit the UFA market in the summer and snag a Hampus Lindholm type player, assuming one's available? It appears NJ has just a couple key signings this offseason, but even with those individuals getting a raise they appear to be in great financial shape to make a splash in the UFA market if the right player(s) are available for the right price.

NJD liked Tarasenko more in the off-season. When he was cheap.

Perhaps, so much remains to be seen. The number of RFA signings they have to make over next two seasons is mind boggling. There will be some tough choices to make on valuation.

Like the idea of the Graves move if Tarasenko still wants out. Blues don't need Namestikov though, he doesn't provide anything they don't already have