New Jersey Devils

In a free agent signing that’s not exactly blockbuster, general manager Ray Shero signed David Schlemko to a one-year contract.

By Patrick Comia

Earlier today, the Devils made a little headline with their signing of David Schlemko, per ESPN.com.

Yes, that Schlemko, the one who spent last season with three different teams: Arizona Coyotes, Dallas Stars, and Calgary Flames. He spent no more than 20 games in the NHL last season, being waived by the very team who gave his first opportunity in 2007.

Schlemko went undrafted, but was signed by the Coyotes to a three-year entry level deal.

After seven seasons with the organization, the defenseman was placed on waivers. The Stars took a flyer on him, in the hopes of helping their blue line. But, that opportunity fell through after five games.

 

His third team, the Flames, saw him play 19 regular season games, going scoreless. However, he did return to the playoffs with the team during their Cinderella run that started late last season, by eliminating the 2014 Stanley Cup defending champions Los Angeles Kings from clinching a playoff berth, and beating their first-round opponent Vancouver Canucks in six games.

He would play in all those games of that series, and all five games of the Flames second-round loss to the Anaheim Ducks.

With Schlemko’s signing, this could be more of a depth move on Ray Shero’s part. The team’s defensive corps is young, but should become a strength in the near future. He will be another veteran, who will be leaned by the Devils.

And for a one year-deal at $625,000, nothing would be lost. So why not?

Photo by bridgetds

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I'm a blogger trying to make it in this world. Have been, and always will be, a fan of the NYR and NYG. Writing for the New Jersey Devils cause, well, someone has to do it!