The New Jersey Devils Get Screwed Over in Free Agency

Bob Fletcher by Contributor Written on July 02, 2009
NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 27:  The first fans through the door walk across a logo on the atrium floor before a game between the Ottawa Senators and the New Jersey Devils at the newly opened Prudential Center October 27, 2007 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)

It seems everything these days is going against the New Jersey Devils hockey team.

Having two goals scored on them in Game 7 of the 2008-09 playoffs in about a minute and thirty seconds for the improbable comeback victory by the Hurricanes, then, coach Brent Sutter departs for the new head coaching position in Calgary.

What more could go wrong?

Well, let's look at what went right for the Devils this off-season. They re-signed two defenceman, Andy Greene, and Johnny Oduya! The question I immediately asked myself was, "That's it?".

After these two bright spots, comes the worst of the worst.

Shut-down forward, and one of the team's few leaders, John Madden signs a one-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks. Brian Gionta, most recognized for his 48 goal 2005-06 campaign, inked a five-year contract with the Montreal Canadiens.

Furthermore, New Jersey lost forward Mike Rupp and goalie Scott Clemmensen to Pittsburgh and Florida, respectively.

As a life long Devils fan it hurts to say all hope seems to be lost.

Other Free Agent News

Mike Cammalleri - Montreal Canadiens

Marian Hossa - Chicago Blackhawks

Martin Havlat - Minnesota Wild

Marian Gaborik - NY Rangers

Mike Komisarek - Toronto Maple Leafs

Nikolai Khabibulin - Edmonton Oilers

Scott Niedermayer and the Sedin twins have elected to remain with their 2008-09 clubs, the Anaheim Ducks and the Vancouver Canucks respectively.

Vote Now! - Author Poll

Will the 2009-10 New Jersey Devils be better or worse than the 2008-09 team?

  • Yes
  • No
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Results - Author Poll

Will the 2009-10 New Jersey Devils be better or worse than the 2008-09 team?

  • Yes

    57.5%
  • No

    42.5%
  • Total votes: 40
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written on July 02, 2009 Opinion

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