Devil's Due

The New Jersey Devil's have long been one of the most consistent franchises in the NHL. They have missed the playoffs only twice since Martin Brodeur has been their backstop and the future hall of famer is still performing at a very high level, leading them to the finals last year. However, with his nagging injuries and the undefeated record of father time, the Devils will have a well, devil of a time without him moving forward. Johan Hedberg his back up is also nearing the end of the line and with his recent play that time may well be very soon indeed. This then begs the question where do they go moving forward. Lou Lamirillo has managed to keep the franchise competitive even after losing players like Scott Stevens, Scott Neidermayer and Petr Sykora to retirement or free agency. This was in large part because he still had Brodeur. No matter what the situation he seemed to keep them in games and drag them into the playoffs almost by himself . They are now at a point where they need to start thinking about their future so why not make a move now?

The LA Kings are coming off a Stanley Cup win and have two solid goaltenders one of who would like to get more playing time. That is of course back up Jonathan Bernier. Earlier in the season when Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Quick struggled Bernier stepped in and played very well. However, Quick has got his game back on track and the Kings are playing much better hockey of late so it's only natural that Bernier would like to prove himself as a full time starter. He has a cup ring so why not move on and be the man elsewhere. They only issue is that LA has nobody in the system behind these to and would need a young goalie or to sign a backup before getting rid of Bernier. He was a highly touted prospect out of junior and is showing he can play at a high level in the NHL. The Devils need to move a head and he could well be the goalie of the future. They ought to be proactive and lock down a young goalie who is proving himself before long because if their current play is any indication they need the help.