From his section when asked about talking to Fitzgerald about Saros:
Next came the serious mid-season trade talks in 2023-24. In an interview with 102.5 The Game in Nashville in February, Trotz revealed that he spoke with Fitzgerald about deals for goaltenders — namely 28-year-old Predators keeper Juuse Saros — “all the time.” The caveat, Trotz said at the time, is that Fitzgerald “needs a goaltender” and the Predators “don’t” — which gave Trotz all the leverage.
“(Our trade discussions) were quite honest and direct,” Trotz said Sunday. “I told him exactly what I was looking for and he told me exactly what he was willing to give up. That was sort of it. There wasn’t any dance there. It’s two people that respect each other.
“Unfortunately, we weren’t able to do anything — but that’s not to say that we won’t.”
Pressed further on this, Trotz said he “absolutely” anticipates discussions about a Saros deal to pick up where they left off, but adds that he has “no problem staying status quo” with Saros and stud goalie prospect Yaroslav Askarov. In his post trade deadline press conference, Fitzgerald said he plans on going “big game hunting” for a goaltender this offseason.
“We’re always willing to listen, but also we really like our goaltending,” said Trotz.
by xxfatpigxx
16 Comments
🙌 Barry Trotz if you can hear us, please trade Juuse Saros to the New Jersey Devils, Barry Trotz if you can hear us. Allow us to manifest a trade with Tom Fitzgerald to acquire Juuse Saros if you can hear us Barry Trotz 🙌
Sounds like both sides will at least circle back for the offseason. A lot of non-answers, but not shutting the door
I just have a hard time seeing Nasvhille get rid of Saros now that they’re competitive, unless it’s an absolute haul. I’d have to imagine they were looking at Mercer in addition to Holtz, plus some picks/prospects.
We’re in a bad spot because we’re desperate for a #1 goalie and everyone knows it, but there aren’t any bad teams with stud goalies right now. Good teams aren’t giving up their goalies because they’re so hard to come by. Markstrom probably fits the description the best, but is he really the right fit for the Devils right now?
I’d prefer ullmark but I’d settle for saros!
Gotta imagine that our first rounder helps move the needle a good bit
I do expect to see either a preds or bruins goalie traded to us this offseason
Repeated information that isn’t news at all, almost entirely related an interview in February. Thanks!
How many different ways can we repost jerseys and goalie trade talk? Come see at the devils subreddit.
Things will change after July 1st when Saros is available for an extension. I would expect similar to the Meir trade a conditional pick to go the other way if Saros signs and extension. The real tricky situation is if he doesn’t, then he’s just a rental. What would reasonably give up for 1 year of Saros? Also I highly doubt Saros will accept not taking full value like Fitz’s other signings.
Barry Trotz must be a Lou disciple. lol
“Status quo!”
Hoping they’re a first round exit so it’s easier to get him. At this point though I think Ullmark is most likely
Tell Barry Trotz that we will give him about tree fiddy in exchange for Saros. Good deal for both sides, and nobody gets eaten by the Loch Ness Monster.
Holtz and first round pick.
I like that he’s leaving the door open for a Saros deal, but I’m still convinced that the right head coach and another decent goalie (not necessarily a stud) would do wonders for us without giving up an absurd haul. Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t hate a Saros or Ullmark by any means, I’m just worried about an over-correction at a huge cost for just one problem of many facing the team right now.
Also, I know we sort of kid around about the curse of Rogalski, but I truly have concerns for *any* future goalie if that guy sticks around.
Most likely: Markstrom
Highest ceiling/most expensive/youngest: Saros
Somewhere in between/most consistent/safest: Ullmark
I’m good. Screw Trotz and his stupid status quo. Allen-Daws works for me. Trotz will be happier this way.
Would prefer Pekka Rinne
Genuine question: Allen has looked pretty good, why aren’t the devils considering sticking with him?