Tomas Tatar was one of the last veteran free agents to ink a deal this summer, and now, he's revealed the sad truth behind what made his departure from New Jersey a reality.
A one-year deal
In a recent interview, Tatar opened up on the summer, revealing that early on, he had a one-year offer from New Jersey, but turned that down after believing he could get more term on the open market.
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Unfortunately, that didn't happen, and by the time he had realized this was his fate, the Devils went out and traded for
Tyler Toffoli, ultimately leading him to the market, which wasn't very hot.
A one year offer from NJ was on the table but I refused since I wanted more term. I only realized later in free agency that it's not possible (to get more than a 1 year deal) this year. Then, Jersey signed Toffoli and that was it.
A veteran ready to prove himself
Despite this disappointment, Tatar now finds himself amongst one of the most talented forward groups in the NHL, as the Avalanche prepare to bounce back from a disappointing end to 2022-23 and bounce back into Stanley Cup contention.
In 82 games a season ago, Tatar tallied 20 goals and 48 points for New Jersey, and with the talent around him in Colorado, he should be able to stay consistent, even though he would have loved to stay with the Devils. Unfortunately, business works quick in the NHL, and it cost Tatar a key spot on a rising team this summer.
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