Newark, NJ – The New Jersey Devils shook up Sunday's 2013 NHL Draft, acquiring goaltender Cory Schneider from the Vancouver Canucks for the ninth overall pick.
In Schneider, the Devils hope to have found a replacement for longtime No. 1 netminder Martin Brodeur, who is 41 years of age and has one year left on the two-year contract with New Jersey he signed prior to last season.
Along with Roberto Luongo, the 27-year-old Schneider was part of a productive goaltending tandem in Vancouver and had been considered the Canucks' No. 1 netminder of the future. The Canucks shopped Luongo on the trade market for the past year, but couldn't find any takers before ultimately opting to deal the less-pricey Schneider instead.
"Today's decision was made after a thorough review of our options and in the interest of improving this team long-term through the draft and development of players," said Canucks general manager Mike Gillis. "We appreciate the high level of professionalism and conduct both Cory and Roberto have shown while continuing to help this team be competitive. I would like to personally thank Cory for his contributions to our team and wish him the very best and a bright future."
Schneider, a native of Salem, Mass., has a career record of 55-26-8 and has compiled a 2.20 goals against average in 98 games with the Canucks. He is 1-4 with a 2.59 GAA in 10 career playoff appearances.
The Canucks used the ninth pick on Sunday to select Bo Horvath, a centerman from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. Horvath, who recorded 33 goals and 61 points in 67 games with the Knights in 2012-13, was the 15th- rated North American prospect by NHL Central Scouting.
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