New Jersey Devils
Devils Address Depth Scoring, Sign Evgenii Dadonov
The Devils have addressed some depth scoring by reeling in forward Evgenii Dadonov.
After making an early splash at the opening of the NHL Free Agency window, they made another later in the day by signing free agent forward, Evgenii Dadonov.
Devils Free Agency Live Blog: Signings; Trades; Rival Moves, & More
After signing Connor Brown to a four-year deal, the Devils add Dadonov to a one-year contract, worth $1 million that includes bonuses.
Dadonov had a great bounce-back year with the Dallas Stars in 2024-25, scoring 20 goals and 40 points in 80 games, after scoring just 12 goals in 51 games during the 2023-24 season. He spent parts of the last three seasons, since 2022-23, with the Dallas Stars after the Montreal Canadiens traded him to Dallas on February 26, 2023. Dadonov later signed a two-year contract with Dallas on June 27, 2023, and earned 78 career points (35g-43a) in 154 regular-season games with the team. The 5-foot-11, 190-lb forwards recorded 40 points last season ranked sixth on Dallas. He also chipped in five power-play goals and two game-winners.
The 36-year-old Russian forward is a multi-20-goal scorer, reaching the plateau five times in an 11-year NHL career.
His best NHL season came in 2018-19, skating for the Florida Panthers, when he netted 28 goals and 42 assists for 70 points.
Dadonov brings plenty of Stanley Cup Playoff experience, reaching the Western Conference Final with the Stars in each of the last three seasons. In 55 playoff games, he’s netted eight goals and 14 assists for 22 points.
Dadonov is certainly what Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald meant when he said he was looking for depth scoring. He’ll also serve as a great mentor to incoming Russian rookie, Arseni Gritsyuk.
Despite his age, Dadonov is still a speedy winger with a great shot. He passes the puck well, contributes to a rush offense, and ensures play is pushed in the right direction.
Dadonov is another ideal bottom-six forward who has the ability to play up in the lineup in the case of injuries.
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