​We knew the New Jersey Devils would add another player one way or another. After Sunny Mehta submitted the first offer sheet in franchise history to Barrett Hayton, only to see it matched, it was clear that Mehta was intent on making a profound addition. He has repeatedly said he’s never “done.” Hayton didn’t pan out, but Anthony Mantha did. Below you’ll find how he reshapes the lineup and completely alters New Jersey’s outlook.
Across the river too, there are notable improvements, with Patrik Laine on Broadway and more to come. New Jersey Hockey Now breaks down how Anthony Mantha’s arrival affects the Devils’ 2026-27 projected lineup. Our colleague Daniel Amoia explains how the Devils rebuilt their entire outlook with their latest free-agent signing.
Mark your calendars: the NHL schedule was released yesterday, revealing all 84 games. The Devils’ slate features a host of early starts, along with key dates and details you’ll want to know.
In the Devils Rink Report, there’s a deeper look at Mantha: was he worth the perceived risk in hindsight? I break down the analysis on the latest episode, and you can watch us live every Friday. If you’re a podcast listener, you can find Devils Rink Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. And for the latest bites in video form, Devils Rink Report is now on TikTok—follow along there as well.
Don’t miss the New Jersey Hockey Now newsletter for daily Devils intel delivered straight to your inbox.
Forever Blueshirts weighs in on a reality the Devils may not want to face: experts contend the New York Rangers are the NHL’s most improved team this offseason … so far.
The Athletic notes that the Rangers remain on Broadway in pursuit of another forward. Are Patrik Laine’s possibilities part of their plan? The Athletic raises the question and explores the options.
Detroit Hockey Now reports that Steve Yzerman may be stepping aside as the Detroit Red Wings’ GM, but the so‑called Yzerplan has, in the view of Max Smith, been dormant for years.
Montreal Hockey Now covers Kirby Dach and the Canadiens’ arbitration-free extension. Sportsnet notes that Connor McMichael also avoids arbitration with the St. Louis Blues, but secures a significantly larger extension than Dach.
Related headlines for improved SEO: expect in-depth analysis of the Devils’ free-agent impact, timelines for Mantha’s integration, and comparisons to other offseason moves across the league.