New Jersey Devils Offseason Moves Prepare for Upcoming NHL Season

News Summary

The New Jersey Devils are actively reshaping their roster for the next NHL season through major signings and trades. After finishing third in their division last season, the Devils are focused on strengthening their squad with new talent and veterans alike. Notable acquisitions include Connor Brown and Evgenii Dadonov, while key player trades have also occurred. The organization aims to enhance its playoff potential by integrating emerging talents and solidifying their strategy moving forward.

Newark, New Jersey — Offseason Moves Set the Stage for the 2025-26 NHL Season

The New Jersey Devils are actively preparing for the upcoming 2025-26 NHL season through significant player signings, trades, and contract negotiations. Following a competitive 2024-25 campaign, the team is making strategic moves to bolster its roster and improve its chances for postseason success.

Season Recap and Recent Performance

In the most recent season, the Devils finished with a record of 42 wins, 33 losses, and 7 overtime losses. Their performance placed them third in the Metropolitan Division. Despite solid regular-season results, the team was eliminated early in the playoffs, losing in the Eastern Conference First Round. As they head into the new season, the focus is on strengthening the roster to advance further in the postseason.

Major Signings and Contract Extensions

During the offseason, the Devils signed several key forwards to multi-year contracts to improve scoring depth and lineup flexibility:

• Connor Brown, aged 31, signed a four-year deal to add veteran experience and offensive depth on the right wing. Last season, Brown scored 13 goals and 17 assists for a total of 30 points in 82 games with the Edmonton Oilers.
• Evgenii Dadonov, age 36, agreed to a one-year contract. He contributed significantly last season, tallying 20 goals and 20 assists for 40 points in 80 games with the Dallas Stars. The Devils anticipate that Dadonov could serve as a critical depth forward, potentially slotting into the top-six line, especially if paired with star center Jack Hughes.

Roster Changes and Trades

The team’s front office also made strategic decisions to reshape the roster:

• On June 18, the Devils traded Erik Haula to the Nashville Predators. In return, they received defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Over three seasons with the Devils, Haula amassed 97 points (41 goals, 56 assists) and scored 21 points last season, making him a notable departure.
• Furthermore, Brian Dumoulin signed a three-year deal with the Los Angeles Kings after contributing six points in 19 games with New Jersey following an acquisition from the Anaheim Ducks.
• After concluding his tenure with the Devils, Tomas Tatar moved to Switzerland, signing a two-year contract with EV Zug. Last season, he scored 17 points in 74 games for New Jersey.

Emerging Talent and Future Prospects

The Devils are also focusing on developing younger players and integrating new talent:

• Seamus Casey, a 21-year-old defenseman, made an impressive rookie appearance last season, recording eight points in 14 games. His performance secured his spot on the playoff roster.
• Arseni Gritsyuk, who played five seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League, signed a one-year, entry-level contract after scoring 44 points (17 goals, 27 assists) in 49 games last season.
• Luke Hughes, another young defenseman, remains a top priority for contract extension. The team extended a qualifying offer to Hughes, whose future deal could influence the team’s salary cap and strategic decisions.

Team Strategy and Expectations

General Manager Tom Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of developing depth and evaluating new talent such as Gritsyuk and Lazar. Fitzgerald also pointed out that the players are eager to stay with the team and contribute to its long-term vision of success.

Last season, the Devils ranked eighth in the NHL for high-danger shots on goal. Players like Nico Hischier and Stefan Noesen led in this category, indicating a focus on offensive opportunities and scoring potential.

Moving forward, the team is considering additional roster moves depending on contracts and emerging opportunities. The ongoing negotiations surrounding Luke Hughes’ contract will directly impact the team’s cap management and future plans.

Looking Ahead

The New Jersey Devils are entering the upcoming season with a roster that balances experienced veterans and promising young players. Their offseason moves aim to address previous shortcomings while maintaining flexibility for further adjustments. With strategic signings, trades, and continued development, the team aims to elevate its performance and seek deeper playoff runs in the 2025-26 season.

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Additional Resources

• NHL: New Jersey Devils Roster Changes for 2025-26 Season
• Wikipedia: New Jersey Devils
• New Jersey Hockey Now: Luke Hughes Trade Rumors
• Google Search: New Jersey Devils 2025 season
• Pucks and Pitchforks: Tom Fitzgerald on Luke Hughes’ Contract
• Encyclopedia Britannica: National Hockey League
• Full Press Hockey: Devils’ Offseason and Luke Hughes Extension
• Google News: New Jersey Devils offseason