Let's talk Adam Henrique

The New Jersey Devils have been linked to a former fan favorite on the trade market.

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The NHL trade deadline is just over a month away and, with that, rumors are starting to pick up.

The latest and greatest had the New Jersey Devils linked to a familiar face in Adam Henrique.

Elliotte Friedman fuelled the fire in a recent edition of 32 Thoughts, suggesting he’d be surprised if the Devils haven’t looked into Henrique.

The veteran forward would certainly be a strong addition to the Devils in a variety of ways.

Henrique is still a very productive player, producing at a 25-goal, 50+ point pace over 82 games. Among Devils skaters, only Tyler Toffoli and Jesper Bratt have scored more goals than Henrique has this season.

Although Henrique is not generating a ton of shot volume, that is not cause for concern. He is a plus finisher who has converted on at least 14.8% of his shots in all but one season with the Ducks.

He posted a 13.5 SH% in the exception, suggesting his current finishing rate of 16% is within the norm and any perspective buyer wouldn’t be paying for unsustainable results.

Henrique ranks second among Ducks forwards in PK time on ice and would provide another experienced option for a Devils team that has struggled shorthanded for much of the season (although they’ve been much better of late).

Henrique has been an offensive threat while undermanned; only six players have more shorthanded points than Henrique (4) this season.

He is also excellent in the faceoff circle. Henrique has won 53.4% of his draws this season and at least 51% in six straight years. He would provide depth, insurance, and another quality option down the middle for a team that could use it.

Jack Hughes has been in and out of the lineup, Nico Hischier has missed time, Erik Haula has fought through bumps and bruises all season long, and Michael McLeod is not in the picture.

Adding a player like Henrique, who could play a variety of different roles, and move up and down the lineup as necessary, would certainly be valuable.

Having said all that, pursuing Henrique isn’t a slam-dunk, no-brainer decision for the Devils.