The Devils should keep an eye on this Canadiens forward.

The new year is here, which means that trade talks around the NHL will begin picking up as we continue to inch closer to the deadline. The New Jersey Devils will be a clear club to watch this year, as they are one of the top teams in the NHL. Thus, they will very likely be buyers. 

The Montreal Canadiens, on the other hand, are standing out as potential sellers. They currently have a 17-17-3 record and do not hold a playoff spot. If this remains the case as we get closer to the deadline and they make their pending UFAs available, Joel Armia is one player the Devils should consider targeting. 

The Devils are looking to improve their bottom six, and Armia would have the potential to help them on that front. The 31-year-old winger is having a strong season with the Habs this year, posting seven goals, 18 points, 51 hits, and a plus-3 rating in 37 games thus far. This is after he had 17 goals and 25 points in 66 games last season. 

When playing at his best, Armia provides solid depth offensive production and physicality. Thus, he could be a good addition to New Jersey's bottom six. In addition, he is known for his steady defensive play, so he would give the Devils another penalty-kill option if acquired.