Devils Eye Pavel Zacha Reunion as Bruins Explore Trade Options Amid Cap Pressure
Nearly a decade after selecting Pavel Zacha sixth overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, the New Jersey Devils may be considering bringing him back. Initially drafted to fill a need at center, Zacha’s development didn’t quite meet expectations, and the rise of Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes eventually pushed him out of the Devils’ long-term plans. In 2022, New Jersey traded Zacha to the Boston Bruins in exchange for Erik Haula, looking for a more immediate fit. 
At the time, both players had similar stats, but Boston bet on Zacha’s potential and youth, while New Jersey prioritized a more reliable bottom-six forward. Since joining the Bruins, Zacha’s production has improved, placing him 15th in points among his draft class—solid, though somewhat underwhelming considering the talent drafted after him. In hindsight, New Jersey’s selection has drawn ongoing criticism.
Zacha in Trade Rumors as Bruins Shift Direction
Now, with Boston missing the playoffs and potentially entering a retool or rebuild phase, Zacha has surfaced in trade speculation. Though he’s expected to remain in the Bruins’ top six, his veteran status and $4.875 million cap hit over the next two seasons make him a potential trade candidate. Boston is tight against the cap, with just $2 million in space, while New Jersey has closer to $6.1 million available—possibly more, depending on final roster decisions.
A return to New Jersey could make sense for both sides, especially as the Devils seek to solidify their third-line center position. However, any move would require careful cap management, particularly with a long-term deal for Luke Hughes still needing attention.
Two Potential Trade Packages for Zacha
One scenario would see the Devils send Seamus Casey, Ondrej Palat, a 2026 second-round pick, and either a 2026 fourth-rounder or a lower-tier prospect like Josh Filmon or Cam Squires to Boston. This deal would help the Devils shed Palat’s $6 million cap hit while giving the Bruins future assets and young talent—useful for a roster in transition. Casey, a promising right-shot defenseman, and Palat’s veteran experience could appeal to a retooling Bruins lineup.
A second, simpler option would involve Dawson Mercer and a 2026 fourth-round pick going to Boston, with Palat moved in a separate cap-clearing deal. Mercer, still young and cost-controlled, could be a key piece in Boston’s rebuild. However, this version of the trade would mean the Devils give up two regular players (Mercer and Palat) for one return, increasing reliance on their younger, untested forwards.
Could a Reunion Work?
Whether the Zacha speculation is legitimate or just offseason noise remains unclear. But if the Bruins are open to dealing him, Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald should seriously consider it. With a new coaching staff and a different team structure than during Zacha’s first stint, he might find more success in New Jersey the second time around.
While not a star, Zacha could provide valuable depth and versatility. If the price is reasonable and cap space is handled effectively, bringing him back could be a smart move for a Devils team looking to solidify its playoff ambitions.
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