The New Jersey Devils have made waves with their latest acquisition, securing promising forward Shane LaChance from the Edmonton Oilers as part of a three-team trade also involving the Boston Bruins. This significant move, executed on March 4, 2025, marks the Devils' intent to bolster their offense as they head toward the playoff stretch.
Initially, the Devils traded the rights of unsigned prospect Petr Hauser to the Bruins, who were eager to move pending free agent Trent Frederic. To facilitate the deal and free up budget room, the Devils agreed to retain 50% of Frederic's salary, which tallies up to $575,000, effectively lowering his cap hit.
Shane LaChance, 21, is currently the captain of the Boston University men’s hockey team and has demonstrated impressive skill with 10 goals and 25 points this season across 32 games. His previous season also saw him rack up 27 points, making him one of the standout players for the Terriers.
"The Devils are getting a solid prospect here with LaChance, who could be one to watch for the future as they look to build their roster," noted PuckPedia, echoing excitement among fans and analysts alike.
LaChance, who was selected by the Oilers 186th overall during the 2021 NHL Draft, boasts both size and offensive capabilities, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds. His physical style and scoring potential could allow him to make the jump to the NHL sooner rather than later, especially as the Devils rank just 28th overall for all-situations scoring since January 1.
The trade also reflects the strategic directions of the involved teams. The Bruins, who have opted to shift their focus as sellers before the trade deadline, moved Frederic, 27, to the Oilers alongside forward Max Jones. Frederic has had his challenges this season with injuries, limiting him to eight goals and 15 points. Despite his injuries, the Oilers were quick to recognize his physicality and experience, seeing him as valuable to their playoff run.
Frederic arrives at the Oilers with 75% of his salary retained, lowering his actual cap hit to $575,000 for what remains of the NHL schedule. This deal reflects Edmonton’s commitment to the present and their aspirations for playoff success.
With only weeks remaining until the playoffs, the trade’s ramifications for the Oilers are expected to play out quickly as Frederic is anticipated to return from injury just as the post-season begins. This situation not only enhances the physical presence on the Oilers' roster but also solidifies their bottom-six forward position.
On the other hand, the Bruins welcome prospect Max Wanner, who was part of Edmonton’s move. Wanner, also recognized as Edmnton’s fourth-best prospect, will report to the Bruins’ AHL affiliate, signaling Boston's shift toward developing younger talent after parting ways with players like Frederic and Jones. They also received important draft picks, including second and fourth-round selections which can be advantageous for their future building plans.
Frederic’s role as enforcer is noted, with his capability of being difficult to play against, as he has recorded 119 hits this season. This physicality is something the Oilers hope will reignite their lineup as they pursue their long-desired championship quest. Writer Steven Ellis remarked, "The expectation is he’ll be healthy come playoff time, which is the ultimate goal here," affirming the general sentiment of Edmonton's decision-making.
The Devils’ willingness to take on part of Frederic's salary may initially seem puzzling for fans, but with Jonas Siegenthaler on long-term injured reserve, the financial maneuvering allows the team to maximize their cap space leading up to the trade deadline. If Jack Hughes, who recently sustained injury, is also shifted to LTIR, the Devils could expand their cap flexibility to make additional moves.
The strategic depth added by LaChance also aligns well with Scott LaChance’s legacy; his father, who currently serves as the head of U.S. scouting for the Devils and played 819 games over his NHL career, could provide valuable insight and guidance as Shane develops.
With such trades taking place, it is evident the NHL is heating up as teams make their final preparations before the season's climax. The potential impact of these players continues to be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. The Devils, Oilers, and Bruins are all set to reshape their rosters and prepare for what lies ahead.