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 secured a much-needed 4-2 victory against the New Jersey Devils, showcasing a remarkable comeback after falling behind 2-0 early in the first period.

Erik Haula opened the scoring for the Devils with a breakaway goal just 15 seconds into the game. Ondrej Palat later deflected a shot from Cody Glass, putting New Jersey ahead within the first six minutes. However, the Penguins rallied, scoring four unanswered goals to take control of the match. Goalie Tristan Jarry made 26 saves to anchor the win, as the Penguins look to recover from a tough season.

The New Jersey Devils kicked off their final home game of the regular season with a promising start, netting two quick goals against the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, the momentum quickly shifted as the Penguins scored four unanswered goals, including a game-winner from Sidney Crosby late in the third. Despite clinching a playoff spot, the Devils struggled to maintain their early lead, ultimately falling 4-2. Head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized the importance of honing their game ahead of the upcoming playoffs, focusing on details and healthy play.

Erik Haula opened the scoring just 15 seconds into the match, while Ondrej Palat added another before the Devils faltered. The Penguins capitalized on a fortunate bounce and power-play opportunities, marking a stark contrast to New Jersey's nine consecutive penalty kills previously. While the loss stings, the Devils must refocus as they look forward to their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes.

On March 26, 2025, NHL DFS contests offer an exciting array of players to consider for optimal lineups across DraftKings and FanDuel. In goal, Spencer Knight stands out as a solid pick against the New Jersey Devils, priced favorably at $7.2K on DK and $7.0K on FD. Meanwhile, centers like Matt Duchene could provide surprising value against the Edmonton Oilers, especially after recently scoring two goals and three assists in his last six games.

Wingers such as Erik Haula have been red-hot, scoring in three consecutive games and positioned on the top line against the Chicago Blackhawks. On the defensive side, Jackson LaCombe emerges as a strong candidate, showcasing impressive stats with the Ducks and his involvement in both power play and penalty-killing units. Goody has curated effective stacks, with a focus on players like Terry, Strome, and Vatrano for a solid performance. Keep an eye on injury news and last-minute updates to finalize your lineups!