Pittsburgh Penguins: Looking Ahead to 2016 Trade Targets
By Mike Necciai
Jiri Tlusty – New Jersey Devils
Tlusty is one of the names out there that screams ‘2016 trade deadline bait’. The Devils are clearly in a rebuilding phase and Tlusty isn’t going to fit into their long-term plans. However, to sign him at $800,000 on a one-year deal will prove to be great value and likely means the ability to acquire picks when February arrives.
Tlusty will be a great addition to a contender that’s looking to add scoring depth in their bottom-six. He finished last season with 31 points (14g, 17a) in 72 games-played between the Carolina Hurricanes and Winnipeg Jets. It was very surprising to see Tlusty sit on the free agent market for so long and have to settle for such a low salary. From an analytics overview, you’ll see just how consistent he can be. (HERO chart via ownthepuck.blogspot.ca)
He isn’t a very physical forward but boasts good size and skill. If he stays healthy, the Devils will look to cash-in at some point this season. And, if the Pens suffer injuries to their bottom-six or fail to get production from that group, Tlusty would be a perfect option for them with his cap hit.
Next: Michael Grabner