The New Jersey Devils announced Tuesday that they have inked veteran forward Anthony Mantha to a two‑year contract worth $9.5 million, a move that locks the 31‑year‑old into the roster through the upcoming seasons.
A Career in Review
Mantha’s breakout campaign last year with the Pittsburgh Penguins saw him record a career‑high 64 points, comprising 33 goals and 31 assists in 81 games, a performance that placed him third among the team’s forwards and atop the scoring list for the club.
Contract Details
The agreement reflects a strategic investment by the Devils, who view the veteran’s proven playoff pedigree — 11 postseason games across Washington, Vegas and Pittsburgh — as a catalyst for deeper runs in the coming years.
Mantha’s journey through the NHL has been marked by stints with several franchises, including the Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals, Vegas Golden Knights and Calgary Flames, each of which benefited from his blend of size, skill and experience.
Selected 20th overall by Detroit in the 2013 NHL Draft, Mantha began his professional career with the Grand Rapids Griffins before earning a permanent spot in the league, and he later represented Canada on the international stage, winning bronze at the 2012 IIHF U‑18 World Junior Championship and silver at the 2019 World Championship.
Born in Longueuil, Quebec, on September 16, 1994, Mantha’s early development with the Val‑d’Or Foreurs of the QMJHL produced back‑to‑back 50‑goal seasons and a Jean Beliveau Trophy, setting the stage for his eventual NHL ascent.
With a blend of offensive upside and defensive reliability, Mantha is poised to contribute immediately, and his presence signals the Devils’ intent to blend youthful talent with seasoned leadership as they aim for contention.