3 PTO signings New Jersey Devils may consider before preseason starts feat. Fredrik Olofsson

The New Jersey Devils had a dreadful campaign in 2023-24. The disappointing season prompted the team to hire Sheldon Keefe as the new head coach and brought in Jacob Markstrom as the new number-one goaltender.

While the Devils are loaded with young, talented rising stars, some veterans in depth roles could help the team get back into the playoff picture in the Metro Division.

So, here’s a look at three PTO candidates the Devils may look at heading into training camp in a couple of weeks.

3 PTO signings New Jersey Devils may consider before preseason starts

#1. John Klingberg

Klingberg had an injury-plagued season with the Toronto Maple Leafs last year. He managed to get into just 14 games before going down for the entire year.

This season, Klingberg looks to be healthy following surgery. If that’s the case, he could still be a useful defenseman, particularly in the New Jersey Devils’ bottom pairing. While Dougie Hamilton figures to be back this upcoming season, the Devils could use insurance.

As such, Klingberg could be a serviceable option as the seventh blue liner. On the flip side, perhaps Klingberg might be open to an AHL deal as he works toward getting back into shape as an effective NHL rearguard.

Klingberg is worth the risk, especially since he could join the club on a low-cost PTO.

#2. Marco Scandella

Scandella spent last season with the St. Louis Blues. In 65 games, he chipped in eight points. While Scandella won’t earn a roster spot for his offensive production, he could earn one due to his veteran presence and solid defensive play.

Those qualities could make Scandella a serviceable depth defense option, particularly in case of injuries on the blue line. Like Klingberg, Scandella could be a seventh defenseman option. Moreover, he could provide insurance if a top blue liner like Dougie Hamilton needs an occasional day off.

Scandella is coming off a four-year deal with a $3.275 AAV. Scandella won’t be getting a deal anywhere in that ballpark. Perhaps a one-year, $1 million deal could make sense if Scandella can prove he’s still got it.

#3. Fredrik Olofsson

Olofsson notched three goals and nine points in 57 games with the Colorado Avalanche last season. While Olofsson played mostly in a fourth-line role, he could provide forward depth for the young New Jersey Devils this upcoming season.

Olofsson could slide into a third or fourth-line wing position, depending on the team’s needs. Moreover, Olofsson could provide solid depth in the playoffs. As the Florida Panthers proved last season, teams can never have enough depth forward in the postseason.

Olofsson could easily sign a one-year, $775,000 deal like he did with the Avalanche. Olofsson is a low-risk option the Devils may not want to pass up.