Alexander Holtz’s departure from the New Jersey Devils this summer marked the end of a chapter that many saw coming, but it still sent shockwaves through the fanbase. Despite being the seventh overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, Holtz struggled to find a consistent role in New Jersey’s lineup. His talent was undeniable, but he never quite met the expectations that came with his draft position. This led to his trade to the Vegas Golden Knights, a move that has fans and analysts wondering if the Devils might have given up on him too soon.
In exchange for Holtz and goaltender Akira Schmid, the Devils received forward Paul Cotter and a 2025 third-round pick from the Golden Knights. While the trade was partially anticipated, the reality of losing a young player with Holtz’s potential was hard for many to accept. The Devils had invested in his development, but after an underwhelming season and limited opportunities to showcase his skills, it was clear that both parties needed a fresh start.
Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon saw an opportunity in Holtz that New Jersey no longer believed in. McCrimmon expressed confidence that Holtz has untapped potential and that a change of scenery could be just what the young forward needs to unlock his best performance. In Vegas, Holtz is expected to have a regular spot in the lineup, and the team is banking on him developing into the player he was projected to be when he was drafted.
For Holtz, the move to the Golden Knights represents a chance to start anew in a system that might better suit his strengths. The Golden Knights’ well-structured lineup and strong defensive play could provide the support Holtz needs to address the areas of his game that held him back in New Jersey. As he embarks on this new chapter, both the Devils and Golden Knights will be closely watching to see if this trade becomes one of the pivotal moments of his career.
