There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding whether a return to the New Jersey Devils is in the cards for Tyler Toffoli. He will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Toffoli is going to test free agency this summer, but there’s a chance he could find his way back to the Devils. Everything would have to align for that to happen for that to happen.

Toffoli fit in well with the Devils’ top forwards, especially Jack Hughes, and played the role he was expected to. He led the team in goals during his time in New Jersey. The Devils traded Toffoli to the Winnipeg Jets at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline once a trip to the Stanley Cup Playoffs seemed unlikely. They received draft picks in return. 

The trade was a necessary move for the Devils. They had to look to the future and avoid the possibility of losing Toffoli in the offseason for nothing. He ultimately finished the season with 33 goals between New Jersey and Winnipeg.

Toffoli is one of the former Devils that general manager Tom Fitzgerald could bring back this offseason. After the trade, Fitzgerald spoke highly of Toffoli. “He’s our leading scorer. Great in the locker room,” Fitzgerald told NHL.com. “He’s everything I thought he would be. A player that I have interest in the offseason if he’s interested in New Jersey.” The interest is mutual on Toffoli’s part. Extension talks were underway before the trade.

Despite the mutual interest, other statements Fitzgerald made showed that it would be difficult to solidify a reunion. He explained that Toffoli wants a longer deal than the Devils are willing to give. If he can find a longer deal elsewhere, that would and should prevent a reunion with the Devils, who shouldn’t get into a bidding war. It depends on what Toffoli can find when he tests the market.

Although the Devils are serious about their interest in bringing Toffoli back, the scenario that would work is compromising on term. Toffoli would have to go lower than he wants, and the Devils would have to go higher than they want. The Devils would need to go higher than a two-year contract to entice Toffoli. They’re probably not willing to go to four years, so a three-year contract could be ideal.

A factor here is whether the cost will make sense given the salary cap. Toffoli is 32-years-old. With stars under contract and some who will need contracts in the near future, the Devils don’t want to be tied to a long, expensive contract with Toffoli. Locking him up for less than a $6 million cap hit would work best for the Devils, but Toffoli might get more elsewhere.

If Toffoli isn’t able to find what he’s looking for elsewhere, and the Devils can make the salary and term work given the other moves they need to make this summer, a reunion could be in order. It isn’t the most likely outcome, but don’t rule out Toffoli returning to New Jersey next season.

A good plan after retirement begins with finding a lovely community to spend your golden years. Important considerations during this time are safety, access to social amenities, recreation opportunities, and the town’s affordability. Luckily, New Jersey offers budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank. From charming downtowns to coastal communities, these top picks welcome retirees seeking an enjoyable lifestyle without stretching savings.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, history enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer, these small towns in New Jersey deliver affordable living alongside a high quality of life. Senior citizens should comfortably settle in a town offering amenities, activities, and a strong sense of community. Their affordability and livability make for relaxing later years surrounded by easy pleasures within any budget.

Rahway

Situated just 15 miles from Manhattan, Rahways ensures retirees have easy access to all of its neighbor’s big-city luxuries, from remarkable shopping opportunities to premium health facilities. However, it balances this with a relaxed, small-town atmosphere, featuring a network of cozy natural areas. Seniors can indulge in diverse recreation across the sprawling expanse of Rahway River Park, which houses facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, walking trails, and picnic spaces. Rahway boasts a vibrant art scene, offering retirees ideal indoor pursuits. Catching a live show at Union County Performing Arts Center is a great way to celebrate the local creative community and meet new faces.

Meanwhile, history-loving pensioners will find the Merchants & Drovers Tavern Museum extremely interesting, owing to its storied heritage, dating back to 1795. The venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, providing an insightful look into Rahway’s history. Retirees hoping to acquire a home should budget around $459,000, the median home price.

Hammonton

Nicknamed the “Blueberry Capital of the World,” Hammonton is home to numerous wineries and sprawling vineyards, culminating in green natural scenery. The town invites retirees to savor its beautiful open spaces, while sampling tasty artisanal wines at establishments like Plagido’s Winery. With the Wharton State Forest surrounding the town center, there are countless recreational activities to take advantage of in Hammonton. This expansive nature preserve hosts lakes, rivers, trails, and woods, calling on hikers, campers, anglers, picnickers, and nature viewers to revel in Mother Nature’s bounty.

Those who prefer to stay away from the wilderness can watch entertaining plays at Eagle Theater, which attracts enthusiasts of all ages. The town has the Hammonton Senior Center to care for pensioners when old age proves challenging. As well as this, the median housing price is less than the United States average at $399,900.

Hopatcong

A waterfront setting on the coast of Lake Hopatcong gives this Sussex County town an easygoing vibe which entices retirees to establish a forever home. This also gives them every reason to embrace the outdoor lifestyle and make the most of delightful experiences like sightseeing sailing trips offered by Lake Hopatcong Cruises. Next to the beautiful waters, Lake Hopatcong Golf Club provides a serene natural space where seniors can join their peers in enjoying a lovely outdoor session, perfecting their swing on an 18-hole golf course.

When not immersed in the town’s outdoor adventures, pensioners can enjoy a visit from their grandkids at Tagalongs Play Place Lake Hopatcong. Conveniently, the Hopatcong Senior Center supports retirees when they can no longer function independently. For those eyeing a residential property in the city, the average cost of housing is $386,400.

Phillipsburg

This adorable community along the Delaware River charms incoming retirees with its idyllic natural surroundings and rich railroad heritage. Thanks to the Delaware River Railroad Excursions, senior citizens can soak up beautiful river views in a vintage train car during a relaxed ride. Furthermore, Phillipsburg Railroad Historians offer a look into local railroad history. This exciting museum houses antique train cars, restored locomotives, and other railroad-related artifacts.

For their outdoor recreation, seniors can stay active along Walters Park’s quiet walking trails. The park also features diverse facilities, including a playground, courts, and athletic fields. Phillipsburg residents can access reliable medical attention from St. Luke’s Hospital whenever necessary. Finally, Phillipsburg is one of the cheaper towns to live in New Jersey, with the average cost of real estate property at $300,000.

Sparta

Sparta is an excellent destination for retirees who spend considerable time with their grandkids. It has a wide array of family-friendly attractions that encourage being around loved ones with every available opportunity. Highlights include Tomahawk Lake Water Park, which charms guests with endless water-based recreation, including boating, swimming, and paddleboarding. The town also has a mini golf course and sand toy stand tailored to the young. Indoor alternatives include watching a live performance at Sparta Avenue Stage, which leaves many in awe of its magic performances.

Those who enjoy retro experiences can visit the Van Kirk Homestead Museum, a historic homestead from the 18th century, which depicts old-world Sparta through various period artifacts and memorabilia. Sparta also offers the Lake Mohawk Country Club for seniors who crave meaningful connections with peers. Elsewhere, those interested in a home should know the area’s listing average is $450,000.

Vernon

Vernon provides a charming balance between rural charm and access to urban luxuries. The town is around an hour’s drive from New York City, allowing pensioners to seek superior recreation opportunities and health services. Locally, the cozy natural scenery and low population culminate in the ideal retirement base. Seniors can stay active by hiking the Stairway to Heaven, a moderately challenging 2.6-mile climb that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the town landscapes. The outdoor fun continues into the winter, thanks to Mountain Creek Resort, whose grounds transform into the perfect skiing slopes when it snows heavily.

Another excellent spot for pensioners to spend their time in open spaces is the Great George Golf Club. This beautiful venue presents a less strenuous activity to make the most of green surroundings. On another note, at $325,000, the local median home cost is less than the United States average.

West Milford

An outdoor lover’s dream come true, West Milford offers an exhilarating escape to the wilderness. This quaint town in Passaic County is full of green nature areas, harboring dense woodlands and sprawling waterways, promising seniors countless recreational adventures. West Milford hosts Long Pond Ironworks State Park, which delivers enjoyable activities like mountain biking, camping, hiking, and boating. The same principle applies to Apshawa Preserve, which spreads 576 acres and places explorers in the heart of northern New Jersey Highlands.

Beyond the open spaces, West Milford houses several historical attractions which entice indoorsy seniors. The West Milford Museum is an excellent example, allowing fresh retirees to trace the history of their new home through the years. A cluster of independent living communities, including West Milford Older Adult Services, guarantees pensioners support at their vulnerable moments, while the average real estate price is around $425,000.

Final Thought

With their wide range of housing, recreational, social and natural opportunities at reasonable costs of living, these recommended towns in New Jersey prove ideal spots for retirement stretched dollars. Their careful blending of quality amenities and affordability results in well-rounded environments to age in a place with financial security. Whether starting a new chapter near the ocean or within cozy downtown vibes, New Jersey’s budget-friendly options cater to relaxed senior years. For safe, convenient, and economical living, consider migrating to a town highlighted for life’s next phase.