The New Jersey Devils have made a significant roster move by acquiring forward Zack MacEwen from the Ottawa Senators, trading Kurtis MacDermid in the process. This acquisition has sparked interest among fans and analysts alike, prompting a closer look at what MacEwen brings to the team and how this trade might impact the Devils moving forward.
Understanding the Trade
MacEwen, a 29-year-old forward, adds depth to the Devils’ lineup. His experience is notable, having played 237 career NHL regular-season games over seven seasons. The statistics point to MacEwen’s versatility and resilience. Last season, he split time between the NHL and the AHL, registering two goals and one assist in 21 NHL games and performing well in the AHL with seven goals and nine assists in 23 games.
The Devils’ decision to trade Kurtis MacDermid may reflect their strategic plan for depth and skill on the ice. MacDermid, known for his physical style of play, has contributed to the team’s toughness but may not align with the Devils’ current direction, especially considering their ambitions for the upcoming season.
Zack MacEwen’s Profile
Zack MacEwen stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 225 pounds, providing the Devils with a considerable physical presence. His career highlights include stints with four NHL teams: Vancouver, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and most recently, Ottawa. While he may not be a prolific scorer, his overall contributions and penalty minutes (323 in total) indicate his role as a gritty player who is not afraid to engage in physical play.
Throughout his NHL career, MacEwen has accumulated 34 points from 17 goals and 17 assists. His experience in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, having participated in seven games, adds a layer of playoff experience that the Devils can leverage as they aim for a deep postseason run.
Why This Move Could Benefit the Devils
Depth and Experience: Acquiring MacEwen brings valuable depth to the Devils’ forward group. His experience in high-pressure situations, like the playoffs, could be beneficial for younger players on the team.
Physicality: With increasing competition in the NHL, having a player like MacEwen can deter opposing teams from engaging in aggressive play. His ability to combine skill with physicality makes him a versatile asset.
Future Scalability: Adding a player at MacEwen’s age means that he can fit into the Devils’ long-term plans, building on their existing talent base without the potential growing pains of a younger player.
- Coaching Familiarity: The fact that MacEwen worked under current Devils’ assistant coach Brad Shaw in Philadelphia could provide an advantage in his integration into the team. Familiarity with coaching strategies could accelerate his adaptation to the Devils’ system.
Potential Concerns
While the trade has its merits, some potential concerns need to be considered:
Scoring Ability: MacEwen’s goal-scoring record has not been stellar. If the Devils are looking for an offensive boost, they may need to manage expectations and understand that his role might be more about physical play and less about scoring.
Team Chemistry: Integrating a new player into an established roster can sometimes disrupt team chemistry. It will be important for the coaching staff to ensure that MacEwen meshed well with his new teammates.
- Penalty Minutes: MacEwen’s high penalty minute accumulation indicates a propensity for taking penalties. This could be a double-edged sword; while his physical play can be advantageous, frequent penalties may negate any positive impact.
Conclusion
The New Jersey Devils’ acquisition of Zack MacEwen from the Ottawa Senators marks a strategic move to enhance their forward depth, infusing the team with experience and a physical edge on the ice. As the Devils look towards the upcoming season, integrating MacEwen effectively into their system will be essential.
Fans will be keenly watching how this trade aligns with the team’s aspirations for playoff success. While MacEwen may not be a marquee name in the league, his role as a gritty forward and his familiarity with a current coach could prove beneficial in their quest for a championship. Overall, this trade could be a stepping stone for the Devils as they seek to solidify their position in an ever-competitive NHL landscape.
