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Insider Links Devils To Gritty Kraken Forward

The New Jersey Devils are currently at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, so the expectation is that they will be buyers this season. When looking at their current group, it is fair to state that they could use a boost in their bottom six.

Because of this, in a recent article for The Athletic, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun argued that the Devils would be an excellent trade destination for Seattle Kraken forward Brandon Tanev.

"I like the Devils as a fit," LeBrun wrote. "They’re looking for a bottom-six boost, and I can picture Tanev finding a nice spot in that Cup-contending lineup that has no shortage of offensive talent but could use a little more sandpaper.

Brandon Tanev <p>© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images</p>
Brandon Tanev

© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

When looking at the Devils' lineup, Tanev could be an excellent fit in their bottom six and on their penalty kill. This is because he plays a heavy game and is solid defensively. He also has the potential to provide decent depth offensive production when playing at his best.

With the Devils standing out as legitimate contenders, bringing in a hard-nosed, energy player like Tanev could be significant for them. The prospect of him becoming available is undoubtedly there, too, as he is a pending unrestricted free agent on a struggling Kraken club.

Tanev, 32, has appeared in 35 games this season with the Kraken, where he has seven goals, 14 points, and 79 hits.

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