With Jack Hughes done for the season, the New Jersey Devils were one of the primary suitors for top trade candidate Brock Nelson. However, the prospect of Nelson going to New Jersey can now be forgotten.
Related: Devils "Definitely Interested" In Islanders Star: Report
The New York Islanders have traded Nelson and William Dufour to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Calum Ritchie, a conditional 2026 or 2027 first-round pick, a conditional 2028 third-round pick, and defenseman Oliver Kylington. Kylington was also immediately flipped by the Islanders to the Anaheim Ducks for future considerations.
Nelson being off the board certainly stings for the Devils. He was the best center available on the trade market and would have been a great addition to their top six with Hughes out.
In 61 games this season, Nelson has 20 goals, 43 points, and a plus-2 rating. Over his previous three seasons, he scored at least 34 goals, so he would have certainly provided the Devils' offense with more scoring.
The Devils will now need to explore their opptions elsewhere from here.
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