Another of the more notable free agents is off the board as we have details of an Anthony Mantha contract. Let’s discuss the details of the new deal, what the signing means for Mantha, and his expected impact on the team going forward.
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Anthony Mantha to the New Jersey Devils
2 x $4.75M
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 15, 2026
New Jersey Devils Agree On New, 2-Year, Anthony Mantha Contract
As a 31-year-old with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Quebec native and the 6’5″ forward had a breakout season of sorts in 2025-26. Despite being a 11-year NHL veteran, and finding some consistently throughout his career, he never quite scored at the level he did in 2025-26. It will be interesting to see if he can maintain the level throughout the lifelength of this deal.
The deal is for two years, with an average annual value of $4.75 million.
As Anthony Mantha contract signing is announced, he truly is being rewarded for breaking out. Prior to 2025-26, he was a four-time, 20-goal scorer in the NHL, so he was able to cause havoc net front and make things happen. But then, this past season, he scored 33 times, well above his previous career high of 25 goals. Similarly for his total points, his 64 was far beyond his previous best of 48. Now, as he signs on the dotted line, he is getting paid to score at a similar rate for the next couple seasons, at least, in New Jersey.
It is a bit of a risk from a team perspective, given the unknown of Mantha being able to maintain his elevated levels from this latest NHL season. However, there are a few knowns in Mantha’s game. Mantha is a big body, who can be difficult for defenders to displace net front and even in the corners. He is able to use his big frame to create favourable opportunities for his teammates in the offensive zone. Moreover, even though he does lack Stanley Cup Playoff experience, his game plays well come springtime puck. Plus, at this point of his career, he is a veteran, so can be seen as a positive influence within an NHL locker room.
The Devil forward group will benefit from his experience, and his ability to be physical in the offensive zone. This is in hopes of challenging for the Metropolitan Division title.
Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
