Devils Acquire Veteran Forward from Blues in Strategic Trade
The New Jersey Devils have made a significant move just before the NHL trade deadline. The team acquired veteran forward Nick Bjugstad from the St. Louis Blues. This trade, announced on February 4, 2024, comes as the Devils prepare for the upcoming Olympic break.
Details of the Trade
The Devils will send a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and minor-league player Thomas Bordeleau to the Blues. This transaction marks Bjugstad’s eighth stop in the NHL during his career.
Player Performance
- Nick Bjugstad: Aged 33, has played 35 games this season with the Blues.
- Goals: Scored six goals and added one assist.
Current Standings and Season Performance
The Devils find themselves in a challenging position, currently sitting just above the New York Rangers in the Eastern Conference standings. After a strong start with an 8-1 record, the team’s performance has dipped significantly. They now hold a record of 28-26-2 and are nine points away from a playoff spot with only 26 games left in the season.
Goals Scored
This season, New Jersey has struggled offensively, being tied with St. Louis for the 30th position in the NHL for goals scored. Their scoring inefficiencies could be a major focus as they approach the playoffs.
With this trade, the Devils aim to bolster their roster and improve their chances for a playoff run before the end of the season.
