The New Jersey Devils strengthened their roster during the first day of free agency by signing veteran forward Evgenii Dadonov to a one-year deal worth $1 million average annual value (AAV). This move, along with the signing of Connor Brown, aims to enhance the Devils’ depth, particularly in the bottom six forward lines, by adding Dadonov’s proven scoring ability.
Starting Out in Florida: Dadonov’s Early NHL Journey
Evgenii Dadonov began his NHL career after being selected 71st overall by the Florida Panthers in 2007. He remained in Russia for two more years before joining the North American leagues during the 2009–10 season. That year, Dadonov spent most of his time with the Rochester Americans in the AHL, where he played 76 games and tallied 40 points. He made his NHL debut on April 6, 2010, logging four games that season but not registering any points.
In the 2010-11 season, Dadonov split his time between Rochester and Florida. He appeared in 24 games with Rochester, posting 16 points. His NHL breakout came with the Panthers, where he played 36 regular-season games, registering 17 points through eight goals and nine assists. His first NHL assist came on December 7, 2010, followed by his inaugural goal just over a week later on December 15.
The following 2011-12 season involved more time in the AHL, split between the San Antonio Rampage and Charlotte Checkers, where he earned 28 points over 55 games. His NHL appearances with the Panthers totaled 15 games, producing four points. After this season, Dadonov’s tenure with Florida paused as he sought new opportunities abroad.
Transition to the Kontinental Hockey League and Rise Abroad
On July 4, 2012, Dadonov signed with Donetsk in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and played two seasons there from 2012 to 2014. Over 106 games with Donetsk, he collected 67 points, solidifying his standing as a valuable forward. Following Donetsk, Dadonov joined SKA St. Petersburg in 2014, where he spent three productive seasons. In 165 games with the team, he amassed 158 points, highlighting his offensive development overseas.
His final year in the KHL culminated in an impressive peak season, paving the way for his return to North America and the NHL.
Return to the NHL and Career Resurgence
Dadonov re-entered the NHL landscape on July 1, 2017, when he signed with the Florida Panthers once again, this time exclusively playing in the NHL. The 2017-18 campaign marked his first full NHL season, and he rewarded the Panthers with 65 points over 74 games, including 28 goals. His KHL experience appeared to elevate his play significantly.
The 2018-19 season was the most prolific of Dadonov’s NHL career, as he played a full 82-game schedule and achieved a career-high 70 points. However, the following 2019-20 season saw a dip in production, with 47 points in 69 games. Despite respectable output, the Panthers opted not to extend his contract.
On October 15, 2020, Dadonov signed with the Ottawa Senators as a free agent. His time in Ottawa was brief; during the 2020-21 season, he appeared in 55 games and notched 20 points. Ottawa traded him to the Vegas Golden Knights on July 28, 2021. In Vegas, Dadonov contributed 43 points over 78 games in the 2021-22 season, before being traded to the Montreal Canadiens on June 16, 2022, in exchange for Shea Weber.
Dadonov began the 2022-23 season with Montreal, where he played 50 games and earned 18 points. Midseason, the Canadiens sent him to the Dallas Stars for Denis Gurianov on February 26, 2023. Dadonov finished the regular season with Dallas, notching 15 points in 23 games. He also made a strong postseason impression, collecting 10 points in 16 playoff games.
Establishing Stability in Dallas
Following his initial stint with the Stars, Dadonov signed a two-year contract with Dallas on June 27, 2023. His first full season was partially interrupted, as he missed 29 games due to a lower-body injury. Nevertheless, he returned in time for the playoffs, contributing seven points across 19 postseason games. In the 2024-25 season, Dadonov managed a full 80-game schedule, recording 40 points balanced between 20 goals and 20 assists, helping Dallas secure another postseason appearance. In the playoffs, he added four points in limited action.
Despite these strong showings, Dallas decided not to offer Dadonov a contract extension, making him a free agent and opening the door for his move to New Jersey. The transition marks a significant opportunity for the Devils to add a reliable scoring presence to their roster.
Expectations for Dadonov’s Role on the New Jersey Devils
Evgenii Dadonov primarily played right wing in his recent seasons, often serving on the third line with Dallas. With the Devils’ top six largely established, their immediate priority lies in enhancing the bottom six where offensive contributions have been scarce. By signing Dadonov, New Jersey gains a seasoned forward known for consistent point production who can fill that scoring void and provide valuable depth down the lineup. This acquisition aligns with the team’s strategy of balancing experienced talent with younger players to boost overall competitiveness.
“
Similar to them signing Brown, Dadonov primarily played right wing on the third line for the Stars. With this signing, the Devils are trying to bolster their bottom six. With their top six primarily set, it is the bottom six that needs work. Dadonov is a clear producer of points; his last season certainly shows that. The Devils want scoring depth in their bottom six – they’re getting that in Dadonov.
” —Unnamed source
Evgenii Dadonov’s addition to the New Jersey Devils roster represents an important step as the team prepares for the upcoming season, adding a veteran forward with a proven scoring touch to their forward group, and reinforcing their competitive depth beyond the top lines.