Erik Haula has been traded from the New Jersey Devils to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The veteran forward, 34, enters the final year of his three-year contract worth $9.45 million, which he signed in June 2023 after a prior trade from the Boston Bruins. Haula previously played for Nashville during the 2020-21 season, where he recorded 21 points.

In his tenure with the Devils, he amassed 97 points over 225 regular-season games, alongside 37 points in 78 playoff matches. Known for his playoff performance, he helped the Vegas Golden Knights reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2018. Meanwhile, Hanzel, a sixth-round pick of the Avalanche in 2023, has been playing in the AHL and ECHL, marking a fresh start in Nashville's roster.

The Nashville Predators have made a strategic move by reacquiring Erik Haula from the New Jersey Devils. In return, the team sent a 2025 fourth-round pick and defenseman Jeremy Hanzel to New Jersey. Haula, who had a decent season with the Devils last year, scoring 11 goals and adding 10 assists, brings valuable experience back to Nashville, where he previously played during the 2020-21 season.

This transfer highlights the Predators' need for versatile players capable of filling multiple roles, particularly in the center and wing positions. Haula's ability to adapt to different lineups is expected to bolster the team's depth as they aim to enhance scoring opportunities from the center position. Despite the acquisition, the Predators still face challenges in addressing their center depth comprehensively.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to make a splash in the trade market rather than during free agency this upcoming July. General Manager Kyle Dubas has indicated that the team is targeting trades as they look to improve their roster, focusing on young players who can fit into their long-term strategies. Key veterans such as Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell are likely to attract interest from other teams, potentially enabling Pittsburgh to secure younger talent in return.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils are also contemplating roster changes, particularly in terms of depth scoring. GM Tom Fitzgerald has acknowledged that the current mix is inadequate, and they are eyeing players from the Colorado Avalanche, including Ross Colton and Charlie Coyle, to enhance their offensive capabilities. This strategic shift reflects both teams' desire to quickly rebound into playoff contention.

The New Jersey Devils, after a promising regular season, faced an early exit in the playoffs, falling to the Carolina Hurricanes. The team is now looking to shake things up during the offseason. Injuries played a role in their disappointing postseason, and general manager Tom Fitzgerald is considering roster changes to enhance the team's offensive capabilities.

One name linked to the Devils is Jonathan Marchessault of the Nashville Predators. Marchessault had a solid season, contributing 21 goals and 35 assists in 78 games. His experience and scoring ability could provide the spark the Devils need to advance deeper into the playoffs next year. Fitzgerald's potential moves could include pursuing Marchessault via trade or free agency, having previously shown interest in him.

Adam Keefe's jersey number 47 was retired by the Belfast Giants at a memorable testimonial event, celebrating his 14 years with the team. The event took place at the SSE Arena and was attended by family, friends, and notable figures including his brother, Sheldon Keefe, the head coach of the New Jersey Devils. Keefe, who joined the Giants in 2011, won two Elite League titles as a player and has been instrumental as a coach, leading the team to 10 trophies in just seven seasons.

The testimonial featured a round-robin tournament, with four teams composed of his former teammates and players he has coached. Notable current players Mark Cooper, David Goodwin, Ben Lake, and Jackson Whistle participated, alongside other retired jersey honorees like Rob Stewart, Colin Shields, and Graeme Walton. Coaches for the event included Todd Kelman and Shane Johnson, adding to the festive atmosphere.