The New Jersey Devils have agreed to a two‑year contract with veteran forward Anthony Mantha, locking him in at $4.75 million per season. The deal marks the sixth NHL team Mantha will wear, underscoring his journeyman resilience after a strong 2025‑26 campaign with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
A fresh chapter for the Devils
Mantha’s career trajectory reads like a tour of the league’s mid‑tier powerhouses. After stints with the Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals, Vegas Golden Knights and Calgary Flames, he arrived in Pittsburgh where he posted 33 goals and 31 assists, helping the Penguins clinch a playoff berth. His chemistry with longtime stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin was evident, as the trio combined for a potent second‑line attack.
What Mantha brings
The Devils’ management sees Mantha as a plug‑and‑play piece for a top‑six forward group that has been searching for a reliable scorer. General manager Sunny Mehta emphasized that the forward’s size, work ethic and proven scoring touch fit the club’s evolving identity. Elliotte Friedman noted in a recent analysis that the move adds depth without sacrificing speed.
Health and durability
Mantha proved he is still a great contributor when he's healthy, referencing his previous injury‑plagued seasons. The new contract includes a health‑performance clause that incentivizes the team to keep him on the ice, ensuring the investment yields on‑ice production.
As the Devils gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of Mantha signals a calculated gamble: a proven scorer at a manageable cap hit, paired with a roster that already boasts emerging talent. If the forward can replicate his recent output, New Jersey may finally break through its recent playoff drought.