Nico Daws is currently in an interesting position as the third-string goaltender for the New Jersey Devils. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils] While his track record has shown he can be a valuable piece of the puzzle, trade rumors continue to swirl around the 24-year-old netminder. Daws is entering the second year of his contract with the Devils, and for the first time, it's a one-way deal. Last season, he was on a two-way contract, earning $775,000 at the NHL level and $350,000 in the AHL. Now, he’s locked into an $850,000 NHL salary. With Jake Allen re-signed in free agency and Jacob Markstrom acquired as the starter, the Devils have solidified their goaltending duo. That leaves Daws in a difficult position. On one hand, he could reprise his familiar role, ready to step in when injuries hit. On the other, he may not see any NHL ice time this season. If the latter scenario plays out, New Jersey may want to consider trading him to a team in need of goaltending depth. Two potential landing spots stand out: the Vegas Golden Knights and the Edmonton Oilers. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS The Golden Knights are actively looking for a dependable backup. With Adin Hill firmly entrenched as the starter, Vegas knows a single goalie can’t handle the full load of an 82-game season. They need a reliable, experienced backup who can step in at any moment, and Daws fits the mold. He has served in a similar role with the Devils, and prior to that, he was a dependable presence in the Ontario Hockey League. He’s been called up to the NHL three times and posted a .898 save percentage. Daws could be an ideal low-cost, low-risk option to help shoulder the workload in Vegas. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EDMONTON OILERS Another potential fit is Edmonton, a team that’s been painfully close to winning it all but has struggled with goaltending consistency. The Oilers have reached the Stanley Cup Final two years in a row, led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. But shaky performances in net have kept them from finishing the job. Stuart Skinner was their starter last season and played well in the regular season, but was frequently substituted for backup Calvin Pickard in the playoffs. That rotation cost them stability in the crease when it mattered most. While the Oilers may target a veteran like Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, that move would require significant assets. Daws, meanwhile, presents a cheaper alternative. He’s younger, has NHL experience, and could provide just what the Oilers need. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WHAT’S NEXT? Goaltending is always in demand, and Nico Daws could be a fit for several teams across the league. Or, as he’s done before, he could once again step up and save the day for the Devils. © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
