Last year on this date, Johnathan Kovacevic proudly wore the colors of the Montreal Canadiens. The defender brought a little stability in the last pairs. His role may have been secondary, but he was a player appreciated by his teammates and generally also by the fans. On June 30, 2024, the CH decided to make space in its defensive brigade for young people who are growing. So, Kovacevic goes to the New Jersey Devils for a 4th round pick.
This choice will only be used in 2026 on the Canadiens side. At the Devils, we will not have to wait that long to see the positive impact of this transaction. Quickly, Kovacevic established himself in the Devils’ defensive brigade. He was one of the most productive players in the preseason schedule and his good play continued during the regular schedule. Author of 12 points in 46 games, Johnathan Kovacevic plays on average 19 minutes per game. This is 3 more on average than its use among Canadians.
“He was one of the players we identified who fit what we were trying to do and become this season, and he helped us transform our identity,” declared Tom Fitzgerald to James Murphy of the media RG.org. “He’s one of those players that maybe went under the radar, and I think he saw this as an opportunity to be part of a team that had a fighting chance, and that he could play a role in this regard. “It’s a great choice for the team and for the player.”
Moreover, the Devils GM makes no secret of his intentions to sign Kovacevic to a contract extension. Currently, he represents quite a bargain for the club at $766,666 for the season. Tom Fitzgerald confirms with RG.org that discussions have not yet started, but “that it is one of the priorities.” We also praise, on Fitzgerald’s side, his physical contribution and his presence in front of the net. Two aspects that greatly help the Devils defense.
What about Simon Nemec?
Obviously, the longer we secure the services of defensemen like Kovacevic, the more Simon Nemec’s full-time arrival in the NHL is delayed. In Murphy’s paper, he mentions that several sources indicate that some prospects are at risk of leaving at the 2025 trade deadline. We are looking to add depth to the roster on the Devils side. Information which was also reported by Kevin Weekes recently on television. Two potential targets are currently circulating for the Devils: Josh Mahura and Trent Frederic.
It goes without saying that the name of Simon Nemec will circulate in the rumors. Four defenders are already signed until 2027 or 2028 and Luke Hughes risks signing such a long contract this summer. Nemec’s place in the equation is becoming more and more lost and we should not delay in his case. He is coming off a great week in the AHL and is generally producing very well there. His value can clearly help the Devils on the market.
