The Top Restricted Free Agent the Devils Must Pursue
The Stanley Cup Final is set, and the NHL season is a few weeks away from concluding. Once the season concludes, there’s nothing for fans to do but hope the off-season goes well for their teams. This summer, New Jersey looks to upgrade its offense and use what they’ve learned from this injured season. General manager Tom Fitzgerald made it clear changes were coming, and though the unrestricted free agency path doesn’t present the best targets, there’s another path the Devils could pursue. With the increase of the salary cap, more opportunities may occur, and there’s one name that could stand out this Summer. Having the chance to draft him in 2020, the Minnesota Wild forward and restricted free agent Marco Rossi may fit right in with New Jersey.
Marco Rossi had the potential to be drafted by the Devils in 2020, but New Jersey chose Alexander Holtz instead, a choice the Devils would end up most likely regretting. Rossi and Minnesota seem to have their differences now, making him a potential candidate for plenty of teams. If Fitzgerald wants to improve this Devils team, he’d be smart to make a move this offseason. Rossi finished this season with 24 goals, an improvement from his 21 goals during his 2023-24 rookie season. Rossi has proven through his early career that he is a man who can be relied on well, as well as generate some five-on-five offense. Rossi also has yet to miss an NHL game, same as Dawson Mercer, making him as healthy as ever, something New Jersey must remain in order to go all the way.
Rossi also ensures more depth scoring from this Devils team, something this team seems to lack as of late. From their bottom six this postseason, New Jersey only got three points from Stefan Noesen and Paul Cotter, clearly, this offseason is more important than fans may think. Though Rossi may not be considered in the bottom six, his impact on the ice may just make a difference. His defensive side also could play a key role in this team's system from Sheldon Keefe, as well as a great place for a player like him to develop into something more. As for the way to acquire him, a long-term deal would make him very likely to sign, that is if New Jersey can get the cap space and offer him something Minnesota can’t match. New Jersey may have to give up a 2026 first-round pick or more if it comes to this, but when it comes to a player like Marco Rossi, it seems like a no-brainer.
