New Jersey Devils
Will Devils Trade a Frustrated Simon Nemec Before He Asks Out?
Simon Nemec is growing frustrated with his position on the team and he hinted he might request a trade from the New Jersey Devils.
New Jersey Devils prospect Simon Nemec, drafted second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, has aired his frustration that the organization is repeatedly holding him back in the AHL when he shouldn’t be in the minors. He might be right, given that he scored five points on Wednesday night, reminding everyone why he was the 2022 second-overall pick. He’s got 16 points in 23 games.
He has been relegated to the AHL’s Utica Comets, and said during a recent Slovak interview, “I can’t remember any No. 2 draft pick that went to the farm for a third year.”
Nemec has improved this season and feels ready for a permanent NHL role. He’s clearly confident. However, his current situation suggests the team doesn’t have the same level of confidence in him. The 19-year-old defenseman could be called up in the event of an injury, but he believes that’s not the position he should be in.
“The farm league is really tough, with grinding, battling,” Nemec said during a recent interview. He said the NHL, at times, is actually easier, hinting that the league is filled with skilled players more at his level.
When asked if he sees his situation as one similar to David Jiricek‘s — who was unhappy while playing in the AHL for Columbus and got traded — the young defenseman says he’s prepared to be patient. “I just have to wait for another chance and grab it when it comes.”
For how long he’ll be patient is the question.
“It’s hard to say, it’s still too early to request a trade. If this situation continues, it will have to be addressed, but for now, this is how it stands.”
What’s Likely to Happen With Nemec: Will the Devils Trade Him?
As journalist Marco D’Amico tweeted, “Things are not too rosy between the Devils and Simon Nemec.”
The Devils aren’t in a position where they’ll be forced to trade Nemec. At the same time, if he doesn’t want to be with the team, the organization might explore the idea of dangling him to teams that have a dire need of blue-line help at the deadline.
To make matters more problematic for Nemec, GM Tom Fitzgerald confirmed his plan to begin contract talks with Johnathan Kovacevic. Fitzgerald said he wants the team to play a more gritty style.
Will the Devils try to get immediate help by sending a second-overall pick to a non-contender who has an asset that will immediately contribute? This is the time of season to watch for trades like this.
Next: Flyers Asking Price for Scott Laughton in Trade Remains High
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