How Timo Meier’s Trade Value Has Been Impacted By The Bo Horvat Deal

As the first piece of the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline has officially fallen, it surprisingly was the biggest asset on the market.

But, how much does Bo Horvat’s trade to the New York Islanders (more specifically the size of the return), impact some of the other big name options ahead of March 3rd?

With Horvat coming off of the market, the asking price for the San Jose Sharks’ best rental is Timo Meier, who already entered the deadline with an argument ahead of Horvat for the top bidding price.

In 51 games this year, Meier has produced 28 goals and 20 assists, averaging just under 20 minutes a game on the ice. He is an unrestricted free agent following the year, with a $6 million cap hit this season.

While he seems to be an option most of the expected playoff teams will be checking in on, the New Jersey Devils appear as the top suitor for Meier, especially considering the assets they can offer.

The Devils, currently second in the Metropolitan with 68 points heading into the break, have no need for top-line help, as their combination of Palat-Hischier-Bratt has led their successful start. But, Meier would be a perfect fit alongside Jack Hughes and Yegor Sharangovich, replacing Fabian Zetterlund in the second line.

And while Zetterlund would be a valuable piece in the third and fourth line, he may find himself a part of San Jose’s top lines instead.

Here is a deal that may make sense for both sides.

Devils Receive: RW Timo Meier

Devils Give: LW Fabian Zetterlund, RW Tyce Thompson, 2023 2nd Round Pick

Sharks Receive: LW Fabian Zetterlund, RW Tyce Thompson, 2023 2nd Round Pick

Sharks Give: RW Timo Meier

If Horvat’s trade sets the bar for the remainder of the trade deadline, Meier coming to Newark goes from a pro-ready winger and a 2nd round pick, to 2 young wingers.

Zetterlund (23 years old, 50 career games in the NHL) and Thompson (23 years old, 11 career games), are both prospects who could fit in right away for the Sharks to see how ‘pro-ready’ they are, all with the safety valve of an additional draft pick heading into the offseason.

And sometimes, getting anything for an expiring contract is better than holding onto them for the right deal, especially if it allows the Devils to cover his contract entirely.

Meier, who is in the final year of a 4-year, $24 million contract, is owed $10 million this year, which is a $6 million cap hit.