Tom Fitzgerald is starting to show his cards and it has to be said that the New Jersey Devils general manager has a good game ahead of him. The signing of Jesper Bratt at a very reasonable price is a clear message.
The future of core offense is now assured for the next four years, with Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Ondrej Palat and Bratt all set to make between $6 million and $8 million per season through 2026-27.
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If he had been greedy the Swede could have asked for more than $7.875m a year but he believes in the Devils project. The 2022-2023 campaign brings hope to this group that is just reaching maturity.
“I like this organization. From day one of the training camp, I felt comfortable in this environment. […] “I’ve wanted to get along long-term for several seasons,” Bratt revealed via video conference on Friday. I’ve loved every campaign I’ve spent in New Jersey so far.”
Better and better
The 24-year-old left winger has 73 points over the past two seasons. He managed to assert himself offensively, who already has six years of experience behind him.
“He’s getting better and better. You can’t bet against that youngster,” explained Fitzgerald, who was able to speak in front of him.
In the playoffs, the Devils’ big guns faltered. In 12 games, Bratt has only hit the target once. Part of the learning curve is New Jersey making the playoffs for the first time since 2017-18.
“I know the things I have to work on this year, like scoring goals when the team really needs them,” he said.
An active CEO
In recent weeks, Fitzgerald traded defenseman Damon Severson to the Columbus Blue Jackets and then focused on Bratt.
His next case could be that of Timo Meier, who is eligible for a salary settlement, but the Devils will try to convince before the meeting.
“He repeated to me that he wanted to be here. He sees himself with the Devils and has asked his agent to negotiate an eight-year long-term contract for him, and that’s music to my ears,” said the GM, who still wants to remain cautious about the salary cap.
Only six attackers have valid contracts for next season. Decisions will be made for unrestricted free agents Miles Wood, Tomas Tatar and Erik Haula, among others.
Fitzgerald should have about $26 million on his pocket this offseason, but that money shouldn’t be wasted.
“If every player takes every crumb he can get, the money is not enough here,” said the managing director, who wishes his people long-term success.