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On Tuesday evening, the New Jersey Devils acquired Luke Evangelista from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a conditional 2028 first-round pick (via Colorado) and the Devils’ own 2028 second-round pick. The condition for the first-round pick is as follows: “In the event that either a) Colorado’s 2027 first-round pick is not transferred to Toronto; or b) Colorado’s 2028 first-round pick falls within the top 10, Nashville shall instead receive Colorado’s 2029 first-round pick.” #BREAKING: We’ve acquired forward Luke Evangelista from Nashville in exchange for two picks in the 2028 NHL Draft. — New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) September 2, 2026 Luke Evangelista Trade Bolsters Devils Forward Group Evangelista is a 24-year-old who has become one of Nashville’s better playmakers. He scored 12 goals and 44 assists for 56 points in 81 games last season, a career-high for him. Evangelista would likely slot into the top six on the right wing. A very solid add for the Devils, as it rounds out their forward group with another strong playmaker. Evangelista is entering the final season of his two-year contract worth $3 million per season. He will become a restricted free agent at the end of next season, when he will likely get a hefty raise, but for now, he comes at a bargain cap hit. Predators Eyeing the Future, Opens Space For Younger Wingers “We know Luke is a good, young player who has endeared himself to our fans, so this decision was not made lightly,” Predators General Manager Chris MacFarland said. “At the same time, we’ve explored all possibilities in pursuit of making our team better moving forward. This trade brings us two more high draft picks, giving us seven in the first two rounds over the next two seasons; provides us with flexibility from a roster and salary cap standpoint to make additional improvements to our team; and creates a space for the promising young wingers within our organization to compete for, and earn, an NHL job. We wish Luke all the best in New Jersey.” The Last Word This move may set the Predators back in the short-term, but this is a calculated move by MacFarland to capitalize on a player who has clearly taken the next step. In turn, it also opens up a roster spot for players like Matthew Wood, Nils Hoglander, Ozzy Wiesblatt, and other prospects to get more ice time, or just a spot on the NHL squad in general. For a retooling team, this is an interesting move, especially doing it now rather than at the trade deadline. As a fan favourite on the team, Preds fans may very well be unhappy right now, but time will tell whether or not this ends up being the right move. More NHL News & Analysis: Eeli Tolvanen signs with the New York Rangers Puck Drop Preview: Colorado Avalanche Vancouver Canucks Offseason Recap Main Photo Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images