Potential trade target: Jaromir Jagr

Photo Credit: Ken Goldfield/NY Daily News

Oh boy I’ve been waiting to write this post. The news that Martin Brodeur has waived his no-trade clause likely means that the Devils are in “sell” mode, and that winger Jaromir Jagr –on a one-year deal worth $2 million– could be moved. Jagr’s history with the Rangers is very well noted, as he and Henrik Lundqvist brought the Rangers back into relevance in the NHL post-lockout.

Jagr is far and away the Devils’ top scorer this season with 19 goals and 52 points. The 42-year-old right winger has shown no signs of slowing down this season, and could likely provide some much-needed scoring to a team in need of adding a punch at the deadline. The best part about Jagr is that he likely comes cheaper than the bigger names (he’s a pure rental), and his salary can easily fit under the cap.

For the Rangers, Jagr would fit in on the wing as a more consistent scoring option than most of their top-nine wingers at this point. He would also be a short-term stop-gap should the Rangers trade Ryan Callahan. At the moment he could slide into J.T. Miller’s spot in the lineup, but only if management feels the kid is best served getting big minutes in the AHL.

Jagr’s peripherals are pretty good as well. He boasts a 57.3% CF (5.3% CF relative) against top competition (29.6% ToTm QoC) with 55.7% of his shifts starting in the offensive zone. He’s not going to be a three-zone guy –his defensive zone play still leaves a lot to be desired– but he is still a viable option in the offensive zone.

Jagr would come considerably cheaper than the bigger names on the market (Moulson, Vanek, Cammalleri), but he comes with the age risk. He wasn’t that effective with the Bruins during their playoff run last season, and that may be fresh in many people’s minds. As a depth scorer, Jagr is a decent option for a club that needs offensive help.