Draft pick trade talk should pick up for the New Jersey Devils

With the 2026 NHL draft lottery now complete, the New Jersey Devils sit at the 12th overall position. This clarity on draft slots has insiders predicting a surge in trade discussions involving first-round picks. Elliotte Friedman noted that teams now have a firmer grasp on where everyone stands, allowing for more targeted conversations.

Friedman highlighted how prospect evaluators divide the draft into tiers, such as one to six, six to 12, or variations like one to four and four to nine. This tiered view influences trade values, as teams assess who might be available at specific spots. For the Devils, holding the No. 12 pick places them in a transitional range, potentially valuable for teams eyeing top prospects or needing to move up.

Trade discussions intensify post-lottery

The finalization of draft order has shifted the NHL landscape toward deal-making. As Friedman explained, “now, at least you know where everybody’s taking,” prompting introductory calls between general managers. Teams not fully settled into playoff runs or rebuilds begin due diligence, weighing costs to jump tiers. For New Jersey, this means actively shopping the 12th pick for immediate roster help, particularly a top-six winger with size.

James Nichols of NJ Hockey Now suggests the Devils should aggressively dangle this asset. Their forward group lacks physicality and proven scoring depth beyond stars like Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. Trading down or packaging the pick could accelerate contention without mortgaging the future entirely.

While some argue for keeping the pick to draft best player available—potentially a left-shot defenseman or high-end forward—others see greater value in flipping it now. The 2026 class boasts depth, but tier drops could limit upside at 12. GM Tom Fitzgerald’s history of bold moves supports an aggressive approach this offseason.

Prospect tiers add nuance. Evaluators like Jason Bukala see clusters from one to four, four to nine, and nine to 15, meaning No. 12 might snag a tier-two talent but risks falling short of elite. This uncertainty fuels trades, as playoff-contending teams like the Devils prioritize wins over lottery tickets.

Free agency looks thin this summer, pushing more activity toward drafts and trades. Playoff teams may hesitate, but non-contenders like St. Louis or rebuilding squads could bite. Expect Devils calls to Toronto, St. Louis, Dallas, and Detroit in the coming weeks. Learn more about NHL draft rumors here.

Four potential trade targets using the No. 12 pick

James Nichols outlines four wingers who could transform New Jersey’s attack. Each fits as a scorer with size or speed, pairing ideally with Hughes and Bratt. Packaging the pick with assets like Simon Nemec addresses sellers’ needs on defense or picks. Detailed analysis available.

Matthew Knies (Toronto Maple Leafs): At 24, Knies brings power-forward traits with 29 goals last season and 152 hits. His willingness to fight adds edge. Toronto’s direction—rebuild or retool around Auston Matthews?—remains unclear, opening a window. Devils interest surfaced at the deadline; offer No. 12 plus Nemec for blue-line help.

Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues): Speedy and skilled, Kyrou’s 30-goal pedigree suits Hughes’ playstyle, despite a down year. St. Louis holds picks at 11 and 15, signaling a reset. His $8.125 million deal through five more years is manageable for a contender.

Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars): A three-time 40-goal man and pending RFA eyes a big extension. Dallas lacks a first-rounder and craves right-shot D. No. 12, Nemec, and extras could land him post-playoff disappointments.

Alex DeBrincat (Detroit Red Wings): With one year at $7.875 million left, DeBrincat’s shot thrives on power plays. Detroit, pick-less after the Faulk deal, might re-enter round one. He’d upgrade scoring alongside Hughes.

These targets emphasize size and production, addressing roster gaps. Not all deals materialize, but the No. 12 pick’s value peaks now.

The Devils’ path forward hinges on balancing youth infusion with veteran punch. Trading the pick accelerates Jack Hughes’ window, but retaining it builds depth.

As talks heat up, New Jersey’s moves could define their 2026-27 ceiling. Watch for fireworks before the draft in late June—what it means for the Atlantic Division chase.