The New Jersey Devils organization is buzzing with activity as they finalize preparations for the 2025-26 NHL campaign, starting with a significant long-term commitment to a cornerstone of their defense and a final roster shakeup. These moves signal a franchise fully committed to building a competitive, high-value team for the foreseeable future.
Locking Down the Blue Line for the Next Decade
In a landmark move that has solidified the team’s defensive core, the Devils officially secured young star defenseman Luke Hughes with a substantial seven-year contract extension. The deal, valued at $63 million, carries an average annual cap hit of $9 million, ensuring the dynamic blueliner will remain in the Garden State for the long haul. This major investment speaks volumes about the club’s belief in the 22-year-old as a foundational piece, building on a history of strong long-term signings alongside his brother, Jack Hughes, and teammates Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Jesper Bratt. Fans can look forward to watching this core talent continue to develop and drive the team’s success in Newark (https://explorenewjersey.org/new-jersey-devils/).
Opening Night Roster and Veteran Reinforcement
The team submitted its official opening-night roster to the league ahead of their season debut on Thursday, October 9th, against the Carolina Hurricanes. While the final list is set, the forward group is expected to welcome a familiar face. Veteran center Luke Glendening, who was on a professional tryout (PTO), is anticipated to sign a formal NHL contract after a strong showing in the preseason. Glendening’s defensive prowess, faceoff mastery, and penalty-killing skills will provide essential depth and grit to the bottom-six forward group.
To manage the roster and salary cap efficiently, the club completed a trade, moving veteran Kurtis MacDermid to the Ottawa Senators. Additionally, the team placed several promising players, including defenseman Calen Addison, goaltender Nico Daws, and forwards Mike Hardman, Jonathan Gruden, and Nathan Légaré, on waivers with the intention of assigning them to their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets. These moves finalize the lineup and create space while allowing prospects crucial professional development time.
The Emerging Future: Prospects Shine
The organization’s commitment to building a powerhouse extends beyond the main roster, with several prospects already off to impressive starts in their respective leagues. Goaltender Mikhail Yegorov stood out in his NCAA season debut for Boston University, turning aside 36 of 38 shots in a decisive 4-2 victory over Long Island University. Meanwhile, defenseman Chase Cheslock contributed two assists for St. Thomas, and center Gustav Hillstrom has been an offensive force with 13 points in just six games for Brynas IF in Sweden’s U20 Nationell league. These early returns point to a well-stocked pipeline of talent poised to contribute to the Devils’ success in the years to come.
A Rapidly Appreciating Franchise
Off the ice, the New Jersey Devils continue to climb the ranks of the NHL’s most valuable organizations. According to Sportico’s latest team valuation report, the franchise has been ranked 11th in the league, with an estimated worth of $2.06 billion. This significant valuation jump reflects the team’s strong market presence, the star-power of its young, locked-in core, and the positive business outlook for professional hockey in the metropolitan area, further cementing the Devils as a premier organization both in the state and across the NHL.
