New Jersey Devils extend Luke Evangelista for five years, $36.2 million

Quick answers

What is the details of Luke Evangelista's contract extension with the New Jersey Devils?

Luke Evangelista signed a five-year, $36.2 million extension with the New Jersey Devils. The deal carries an average annual value of $7.25 million, with a significant portion paid in signing bonuses. Evangelista's new contract begins in the 2027-28 season and spans through 2031-32.

How did the New Jersey Devils acquire Luke Evangelista before signing him?

The New Jersey Devils acquired Luke Evangelista from the Nashville Predators on September 1, giving up a conditional 2028 first-round pick and a second-round pick. This strategic move has positioned them to extend Evangelista ahead of his restricted free agency next summer.

Devils extend Evangelista with substantial long-term deal

The New Jersey Devils secured forward Luke Evangelista with a five-year, $36.25 million extension. The agreement, which begins in the 2027-28 season, features an average annual value of $7.25 million.

Evangelista joined the Devils on September 1, acquiring him from the Nashville Predators for a conditional 2028 first-round draft pick and a 2028 second-round pick. More than 60% of the new contract will be allocated as signing bonuses, according to NHL Insider Chris Johnston.

Contract structure and implications

The contract is notably frontloaded. Evangelista stands to earn $9.7 million in the first year, followed by $8.26 million in the second year, and $6.12 million in the third. The final two years of the contract will each pay him $6.08 million.

This structured approach indicates the Devils’ strong confidence in Evangelista’s potential contributions to the team’s success. He is currently finishing a two-year contract with a total value of $6 million and was set to become a restricted free agent next summer.

Evangelista’s rising profile in the NHL

In the 2025-26 NHL season, Evangelista recorded career-high numbers, scoring 12 goals and accumulating 56 points, which bolstered the Devils’ decision to extend his contract. His performance included a peak of 44 assists, showcasing his development as a playmaker.

Before breaking into the NHL, Evangelista was a standout in junior hockey. He led the OHL with 55 goals in the 2021-22 season while playing for the London Knights, finishing fourth in the league with 111 points over 62 games.

Future expectations for Evangelista and the Devils

With this extension, the Devils are signalling significant expectations for Evangelista. Their aim is to enhance a competitive standing after finishing seventh in the Metropolitan Division last season, ultimately missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second time in three years.

As Evangelista becomes more integrated into the Devils’ system, his contributions will be pivotal for the team’s ambitions moving forward. He represents a core piece in the organization’s strategy to build a more formidable lineup.

For related context, see recent NHL line usage and NHL trade coverage.

Reporting for this story draws on The Hockey News, Sportsnet.

Odds and market references describe the situation at the time of writing. You must meet the legal gambling age in your province or territory. See responsible gambling.