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Devils' Stempniak could be biggest trade deadline bargain

Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports

Lee Stempniak is without a doubt one of the best stories in the NHL this season, but that story may have an uncertain ending.

Stempniak joined his eighth team in 11 seasons in October, becoming one of the best bargains in the league after inking a one-year, $850,000 deal following a professional tryout with the New Jersey Devils.

The veteran forward, who turned 33 years old Thursday, is currently tied with Michael Cammalleri for the team lead with 38 points in 51 games. His impressive numbers and cheap contract might make him one of the most sought-after players ahead of the Feb. 29 trade deadline.

It's important to note that the Devils are nowhere near a decision on trading Stempniak. They trail the New York Islanders by one point for third spot in the Metropolitan Division, and sit right behind the Pittsburgh Penguins in the wild-card race. Should they fall from their position, though, general manager Ray Shero would certainly be enticed by the many suitors for his leading scorer.

Stempniak says he isn't fazed by the uncertain yet familiar position he's in.

"You never know what is going to happen," he told Rich Chere of NJ.com on Wednesday. "Last year in New York, I was traded and they ended up winning the Presidents' Trophy. Things happen and they're sort of out of my control. I really hadn't thought about this at all until I was asked the last two days. So it's not weighing on my mind very much."

He concedes he would prefer to remain in New Jersey if possible, but says the decision is beyond his control.

"I would like to stay, but I have no idea what's going to happen," Stempniak said. "A lot can happen in the standings over the next month and you never know what direction Ray is going to take with the team."

One way or another, he should find himself mired in a playoff race over the last two-and-a-half months of the regular season.

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