New Jersey Devils Acquire Colin Miller From Dallas

Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald at the 2023 NHL Draft speaking with Full Press Hockey said “He is always looking to improve his team whether that be at the wing position or on defence, I am always looking to improve the hockey club.” 

Well on July 1st, Tom Fitzgerald did just that by trading for Colin Miller from the Dallas Stars for their fifth-round pick in 2025.

New Jersey was looking to add depth to their defence with the losses of Damon Severson, traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets and Ryan Graves leaving via free agency. Not to mention the Devils were looking to insulate Simon Nemec on the right side with a veteran presence.

Even though Fitzgerald liked his defence, he always wants to improve areas of strength as he has done in years past. Again the uncertainty of Nemec, the Devils wanted to add depth to their defence just in case he is not ready for the NHL. Nemec performed well in the AHL this season for Utica, but the NHL is a different animal. Plus the Devils wanted an upgrade over Brendan Smith.

Miller has played eight seasons in the NHL and is a player the Devils have been eyeing for a while now. Last year he recorded 21 points (six goals and 15 assists) in 79 regular season games with Dallas. Miller is also coming off his fourth postseason appearance with the Stars. ‘

The right-shot defenceman is a player that makes an impact on both sides of the ice. He can move the puck efficiently so a suitable replacement for Severson. And he is cheaper with one-year left at $1.85 million.

The Devils salary cap continues to dwindle as it is hovering over $7 million as they look to continue to upgrade their goaltending position