The New Jersey Devils are focusing on securing defenseman Luke Hughes during the upcoming offseason, aiming to finalize his contract soon. The team‘s primary objective is to lock in Hughes, who remains a key figure in their defensive core, through either a long-term or a bridge deal according to insiders.
When considering a long-term agreement, Brock Faber’s contract with the Minnesota Wild stands out as a relevant comparison. Faber, age 22, signed an eight-year contract worth an average annual value (AAV) of $8.5 million that began this past season. Given that the salary cap situation remains similar to last year, aside from slight adjustments for 2024-25, Hughes’ potential deal would face comparable financial parameters.
Assessing the Value of Hughes Compared to Brock Faber
A Western Conference executive expressed that Hughes has yet to reach the level Faber has attained, emphasizing that although Hughes will command a substantial salary, it might not precisely match Faber’s contract. Statistically, Hughes’ offensive contributions—93 points over 155 NHL games—surpass Faber’s 76 points in 163 games, which adds complexity to any direct comparisons. While the exact dollar figure for Hughes remains uncertain, it is expected to be close to Faber’s deal if the Devils opt for a long-term agreement.
Potential for a Bridge Contract Could Sway Devils’ Decision
Rather than a lengthy commitment, Devils General Manager Tom Fitzgerald may favor a shorter bridge contract to start. An Eastern Conference executive recommended this approach, suggesting Hughes could be signed to a bridge deal and later secured long-term. Bo Byram’s contract with the Buffalo Sabres offers a useful benchmark. Byram, also a restricted free agent this summer, inked a two-year, $7.7 million contract as a younger player with the Colorado Avalanche. At the time, Byram’s points per game (.47) were lower than Hughes’ current rate of .6.
Considering that the NHL salary cap has risen by $10 million since Byram’s deal was signed two years ago, Hughes’ AAV in a bridge contract would likely start significantly above Byram’s $3.85 million. The example of Thomas Harley, who signed a two-year deal with a $4 million AAV before last season with the Dallas Stars, further suggests Hughes’ bridge deal could reach close to $5 million per season.
Slow Progress in Connor Zary’s Contract Discussions Amid Flames’ RFA Priorities
Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames face slow-moving contract talks with restricted free agent forward Connor Zary, as they juggle multiple offseason priorities. Sources from both the team and the player’s camp confirm limited recent dialogue on a new deal. Reports indicate a bridge contract remains the most probable path, influenced by Zary’s injury history and uncertainty over his position as either a center or winger.
The Flames reportedly favor a three-year “prove-it” contract for Zary, the 2020 first-round draft pick. Comparisons have been drawn to Tyson Foerster’s recent two-year, $3.75 million AAV contract with the Philadelphia Flyers, signed last week. Although Zary’s camp believes his value exceeds this figure, the Foerster deal serves as a baseline for ongoing negotiations.
Adding to the complexity, Zary’s reduced playing role after acquisitions like Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost has affected his offensive output, a factor likely influencing contract talks as they pick up steam. The Flames also have other key restricted free agents to address, including Morgan Frost, Kevin Bahl, and blueliner Rasmus Andersson, who remains a pending free agent.
Implications for Devils and Flames as Key Players’ Contracts Loom
The New Jersey Devils’ handling of Hughes’ contract will significantly impact their defensive lineup and financial flexibility, especially given his top status and rising performance. Locking in Hughes with either a bridge or long-term deal is critical to maintaining continuity and competitiveness. The potential salary range—between $5 million and $8.5 million AAV—reflects both his current contributions and the salary cap’s upward trajectory.
For the Calgary Flames, the slow pace of discussions signals a challenging offseason ahead in managing their roster of emerging talent and restricted free agents. Connor Zary’s negotiations, tied to his development and usage on the ice, will shape the team’s forward group. How the Flames approach extensions for Zary, Frost, Bahl, and Andersson will be essential in crafting their future roster.
As the offseason progresses, both teams must balance strategic investments in promising players with salary cap considerations, making these contract talks some of the most crucial in the NHL’s current offseason landscape.