The first day of NHL Free Agency, July 1st, always brings a whirlwind of activity, and this year was no exception for New Jersey’s beloved hockey teams. While the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers navigate different stages of their team builds, both organizations were busy making significant moves to shape their rosters for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Let’s break down the key acquisitions and re-signings that sent ripples through the hockey world.
New Jersey Devils: Strategic Additions and Goaltending Security
The New Jersey Devils, under General Manager Tom Fitzgerald, had a productive Day One, focusing on shoring up their forward depth and securing their goaltending for the long haul. Despite a somewhat muted “Frenzy” across the league due to warnings about early contact with free agents, the Devils made some impactful decisions.
Perhaps the most surprising, and certainly team-friendly, move was the re-signing of veteran goaltender Jake Allen. While rumors hinted at Allen potentially commanding a higher salary on the open market, he chose to commit to the Garden State, signing a five-year deal with an annual average value (AAV) of just $1.8 million. Allen’s decision was driven by a desire to finish his career in New Jersey, solidifying a goaltending tandem with Jacob Markstrom. This commitment provides the Devils with long-term stability in net and reflects a strong belief in the direction of the organization. Allen’s track record of solid goaltending and good health makes this a savvy move, especially with young goaltending talent developing in the system.
Up front, the Devils made two important additions, bringing in valuable experience and skill. They signed forward Connor Brown to a four-year, $12 million contract ($3 million AAV). Brown, a 31-year-old winger, brings a strong two-way game, speed, and recent playoff experience from his time with the Edmonton Oilers. Known for his tenacious play and penalty-killing prowess, Brown is expected to bolster the Devils’ middle-six forward group and provide a consistent competitive edge. His production has seen an uptick recently, and the Devils are hopeful he can continue to elevate his offensive contributions.
The second forward acquisition was a value pickup in Evgenii Dadonov, who signed a one-year, $1 million contract. At 36, Dadonov still possesses impressive offensive instincts, demonstrated by his 20 goals and 20 assists last season. His high-percentage shot and ability to produce even in limited minutes make him a shrewd addition to the Devils’ third line or potentially in offensive situations higher up the lineup. His speed, even at his age, remains a significant asset.
Beyond these significant NHL-level signings, the Devils also focused on strengthening their organizational depth, bringing in several players who will contribute to both the NHL club and their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets. These depth signings include:
- Dennis Cholowski: A defenseman acquired in a previous three-way trade, re-signed on a one-way deal, making him a candidate for the team’s seventh defenseman spot.
- Marc McLaughlin: A center acquired from Boston, who signed a two-way deal, offering versatility at the center position.
- Angus Crookshank: A highly-regarded AHL forward from the Ottawa Senators system, signed to a two-year deal with a significant minor league raise, indicating potential for an NHL role.
- Calen Addison: A right-shot defenseman who will provide depth for both the NHL and AHL, potentially challenging for a roster spot or filling in for recalls.
Overall, Day One for the New Jersey Devils appears to be a success, with strong value signings that address key needs and provide long-term stability, particularly in net.
Philadelphia Flyers: Building with Caution and Eyes on the Future
Down in South Jersey, the Philadelphia Flyers, led by General Manager Danny Briere, had a busy day of their own, making several moves with an eye on both immediate roster flexibility and long-term potential. Briere’s approach seems to prioritize short-term commitments to maintain future cap flexibility.
The Flyers’ initial moves focused on shoring up their defense. They signed defenseman Noah Juulsen to a one-year, $900,000 contract. Juulsen, who previously played under new Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet in Vancouver, adds a familiar face to the blueline depth. They also brought in AHL/NHL bubble defender Dennis Gilbert, adding more options to their defensive corps.
More intriguing additions came next. The Flyers signed center Christian Dvorak to a one-year, $5.4 million contract. Dvorak also has a history with Coach Tocchet from their time in Arizona. While his recent production in Montreal has dipped, the Flyers are hopeful that a change of scenery and a reunion with his former coach can reignite his offensive touch. This signing addresses a need down the middle, a position where the Flyers have been thin.
In net, the Flyers acquired desperately needed backup goaltending by signing Dan Vladar to a two-year deal worth $6.7 million. Vladar, a career backup who has played over 100 games in the last two years, will compete for playing time and provide depth behind the younger goalies. Briere emphasized the need for multiple goaltending options, and Vladar’s signing contributes to that goal.
To round out Day One, the Flyers added veteran forward Lane Pederson on a one-year, NHL minimum deal ($750,000), providing experienced depth for their AHL affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, with the ability to step into an NHL role if needed.
However, a significant storyline for the Flyers, and one that remains unresolved, revolves around Russian phenom Maxim V. Shabanov. This small but highly productive KHL winger is drawing significant interest from multiple NHL teams, and the Flyers are heavily in the mix. Shabanov’s impressive point-per-game production in a competitive KHL league has made him a coveted talent. While rumors suggest the New York Rangers might have an inside track, Briere acknowledged the excitement around Shabanov but confirmed no deal has been finalized. The potential pairing of Shabanov with fellow young star Matvei Michkov is a tantalizing prospect for Flyers fans, promising an injection of high-end skill and offensive creativity.
Danny Briere’s Day One approach reflects a cautious but optimistic strategy, adding pieces to address immediate needs while keeping an eye on the future. The emphasis on shorter-term deals maintains financial flexibility, which could be crucial for future big moves, especially if a talent like Shabanov decides to join the Flyers.
The first day of NHL Free Agency has certainly given hockey fans across New Jersey plenty to discuss. With both the Devils and Flyers making key additions, the stage is set for an exciting season ahead, filled with new faces and renewed hopes.
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