The New Jersey Devils have signed free-agent defenceman Dougie Hamilton to a seven-year contract worth over $60 million, or above $8.5 million per season. This contract carries him through the 2027-28 season.
Doug Hamilton done deal with @NJDevils 7 years north of 60m. #jackpot @Line_Movement @littlebuddhaco @NHL #signingseason
— Nick Kypreos (@RealKyper) July 28, 2021
Dougie Hamilton Signs With New Jersey
Over his nine-year NHL career, Hamilton has played for the Boston Bruins, Calgary Flames, and most recently back-to-back seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes. During this time, he has put up 106 goals and 235 assists for 341 career points in 607 career games. He was originally drafted in the first round, ninth overall of the 2011 NHL draft by the Boston Bruins.
Last season as an offensive defenceman he scored 10 goals and 32 assists for 42 points. He also added 35 minutes in penalties. His possession numbers were 58.7 percent Corsi and a relative Corsi of 7.8.
What This Means for the Future
Dougie Hamilton has been vital to the Canes organization since his acquisition in the 2018-19 season. However, the Devils were in need of a major upgrade on defence. They have found it with the Hamilton signing. Since going to Carolina, he has been one of the top defencemen in the league. New Jersey now has a true number one defenceman something they have been missing for a while now. As one of the most prolific blueliners in the league, Hamilton’s new contract reflects the 28-year old’s skill and physicality on the ice. As a top defensive line pairing, Hamilton has proven to be versatile and can build chemistry with teammates.
He also has the experience to guide the younger members of the team, particularly with his added playoff experience. Hamilton has played in six out of his nine years with playoff contention teams. Despite an extensive injury last year, the Canadian has recovered well and is projected to increase further in offensive value this season.
The downside for the team is Hamilton comes with a steep price tag, it is unclear where the organization will stand in cap space going forward, as they continue to require the depth.
It will be interesting to see if the Devils keep both Hamilton and P.K. Subban going forward.
Main Photo:
