On June 29, 2024, the New Jersey Devils and Vegas Golden Knights pulled off a trade that was a shock to many.
The Devils acquired Paul Cotter and a 2025 third-round pick from the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Alexander Holtz and Akira Schmid.
Cotter spent the past three seasons with Vegas, appearing in 138 career NHL games and scoring 45 points.
However, this season with the Devils, he has stood out and showed he is a valuable member of the organization.
Through seven games with his new club, he has five goals and one assist for six points.
The 24-year-old started on the fourth line that was thought to be the energy line. Along with injecting energy into the lineup, he has also shown up on the scoresheet and helped the Devils find early-season success.
Although the trade seemed confusing at the time, it has paid off nicely for the Devils.