The Jake Evans case continues to capture attention across the NHL, but a new intrigue has just emerged around the New Jersey Devils.
As the team weighs the possibility of making an offer to acquire Evans, another situation highlights the difficult choices facing general manager Tom Fitzgerald: the management of his defensive brigade, notably the future of Simon Nemec, l one of their best hopes.
Since his acquisition from the Canadiens in 2023 for a modest fourth-round pick, Jonathan Kovacevic has established himself as a pillar of the Devils defense.
With his imposing size (6’5″, 223 pounds) and his physical style, Kovacevic transformed New Jersey’s defensive identity.
“His wingspan, size and style of play don’t leave opponents much space. He is difficult to face in his territory,” emphasized Tom Fitzgerald.
With Dougie Hamilton and Brett Pesce already under contract, the Devils have built a formidable right side.
However, Fitzgerald’s desire to extend Kovacevic could have significant repercussions on their young talent pool.
The case of Simon Nemec, selected second in the 2022 draft, perfectly illustrates this dynamic.
Considered a complete defender capable of contributing in all situations, the Slovak is nevertheless confined to the AHL with Utica.
His progress seems to be hampered by the Devils’ depth on the right, and according to several sources, Nemec could soon become available on the transaction market.
“I believe I have proven many times that I deserve to play in the NHL. But for now I have to wait for another chance,” Nemec told Slovak media Dennik Sport.
This statement demonstrates a growing frustration, exacerbated by the fact that Seamus Casey, another right-handed defensive prospect, appears to have passed him in the Devils hierarchy.
In this context, the discussions around Jake Evans take on an additional dimension. The Devils, eager to strengthen their depth at center, have expressed an interest in the versatile Canadiens forward.
However, their ability to offer an attractive reward is limited.
Could Nemec be included in a trade for Evans?
If the Devils consider that Nemec has no short-term future with the team, he could represent a prime asset to attract a player like Evans, who would immediately meet their needs.
Especially if Evans agrees to sign a contract extension in New Jersey.
Casey, compared to Lane Hutson for his offensive style and transition game, is another name that could interest Montreal. However, with Hutson already in their system, the Canadiens might be hesitant to accumulate similar profiles.
And according to what is circulating in New Jersey, Casey would have overtaken Nemec in the Devils hierarchy at the blue line.
For Montreal, the acquisition of Simon Nemec could represent a rare opportunity. With glaring needs on the right of their defense, a disappointing Logan Mailloux in Laval and a David Savard at the end of his tether, Nemec would provide a long-term solution.
In addition, his links with Juraj Slafkovsky, one of his best friends and compatriot, could facilitate his integration.
The main concern remains its development. The Canadiens have recently been criticized for their management of young talents like Logan Mailloux, not to mention the controversial selection of David Reinbacher.
-Adding Nemec would require a careful approach to maximize his potential. Above all, if Nemec arrives in Montreal, that means that Logan Mailloux will be exchanged…for a center who will replace Evans?
The Devils, despite their interest in Evans, must deal with significant constraints:
No first-round pick in 2025, which limits their flexibility in negotiations.
Protected young talents, like Anton Silayev, who will not be included in an exchange.
An immediate need for results, which could push them to sacrifice a player like Nemec to strengthen their roster right now.
According to several observers, the Devils’ most realistic offer could include Nemec or Seamus Casey, combined with a conditional second or third round pick.
And it looks like Nemec is the defender on the market.
Kovacevic’s role in this saga cannot be underestimated. His rise to prominence in New Jersey illustrates how essential an underrated defender can become in the right environment.
This situation could serve as a model for the Canadiens to take advantage of young players like Nemec if Kent Hughes ends up getting him.
“Kovacevic helped transform our identity. He’s a player who brings what we wanted: toughness and reliability,” Fitzgerald said.
If the Canadiens are able to land Nemec, they will need to create a similar environment to maximize his potential and avoid the mistakes made in the past with other young players.
Simon Nemec’s future with the Devils is uncertain, as is Jake Evans’ fate with the Canadiens.
As both teams evaluate their options, this saga could culminate in a landmark trade, redefining the trajectory of these two franchises.
For Montreal, Nemec represents a rare opportunity to fill a critical need on the right side of their defense, but it would come with risks.
For New Jersey, the price to pay for Evans will have to be high. And if Casey really came before Nemec in the hierarchy, then the picture becomes crystal clear: the Slovak is available for a transaction.
In this complex chess game, Jake Evans must start to stress.
And if Nemec ultimately becomes a Canadian, it could mark a turning point for an organization seeking an elite defense for the future.
Guhle, Hutson, Reinbacher, Nemec…
Mike Matheson and Logan Mailloux will have to be swapped.
To be continued…
