Overview
- Reports dated Tuesday say Hischier’s agent Allain Roy met with new Devils GM Sunny Mehta in Newark and described the initial discussions as amicable and positive while stressing talks remain early and delicate.
- Hischier is entering the final year of a contract that carries a $7.25 million average annual value and he becomes eligible to sign an extension starting July 1.
- Public projections place Hischier’s next deal in roughly an $11 million to $13 million AAV range, creating a major budget challenge for New Jersey as it plans roster moves.
- If the Devils and Hischier cannot agree on terms this summer the team could consider trading him because several clubs including Montreal, Los Angeles, and Minnesota are reported to be likely suitors.
- The clear next milestones are the July 1 extension window and summer roster decisions on restricted free agents and cap allocation that will determine whether New Jersey signs, holds, or trades its captain.