At the 2025 NHL trade deadline, the New Jersey Devils acquired forward Daniel Sprong from the Seattle Kraken in exchange for a 2026 seventh-round pick. The move was understandable, as the Devils needed more forward depth.
Following the move, Sprong posted two assists in 11 regular-season games with the Devils. He also played in one post-season contest for the Devils, where he had a minus-1 rating in 11:07 of ice time.
While recently speaking to reporters, Sprong made it clear that he appreciated his time with the Devils and that he hopes to stay put instead of hitting the free-agent market on July 1.
"I loved it here," Sprong said. "Great group of guys. Great fans. I would say everything before New Jersey was a pretty difficult year. Mentally, a lot of ups and downs, mostly downs. When I got to New Jersey, I think I fit in well... I loved it here, and I really hope I can come back."
Sprong also then had some kind words to say about Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe.
"Yeah, I loved it here. I loved playing for [Keefe]," Sprong said. "I think he's my favorite coach I have played for in the NHL so far. I'd really love to come back... He's honest. He says how it is. There's no going around the corner or him not saying how he feels. It's direct, and that's what you want as a player."
Clearly, Sprong enjoyed playing for the Devils and Keefe. However, his return to the Metropolitan Division club is not guaranteed, as he is a pending unrestricted free agent, and the Devils have multiple other players due for their next contracts.
If the Devils feel that Sprong can bounce back offensively, they could consider re-signing him to a cheap one-year, prove-it deal. He has had offensive success in the past in a bottom-six role, as he had 18 goals and 43 points in 76 games during the 2023-24 season with the Red Wings. He also had 21 goals and 46 points in 66 contests with the Kraken in 2022-23.
Nevertheless, it will now be fascinating to see if Sprong gets his wish and gets to continue playing for Keefe and the Devils from here.
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