Anthony Mantha Signs with Devils
Anthony Mantha is looking forward to a pivotal new chapter in his career.
The 31-year-old forward has inked a two-year deal worth $9.5 million with the New Jersey Devils, as confirmed by the team on Wednesday.
His contract stipulates an annual salary of $4.75 million, with $5.4 million for the upcoming season and $4.1 million in 2027-28.
Last season, Mantha scored a personal best of 33 goals while playing for the Penguins, but his postseason performance was lackluster, recording only one assist in six games, causing the Penguins to get eliminated in the first round by the Flyers.
While the Penguins had hoped to retain him on a shorter contract after his previous one-year deal for $2.5 million came to an end, Mantha had bigger aspirations.
He mentioned wanting a three-year arrangement following the season’s conclusion but ultimately decided on a two-year term with New Jersey, which offered better financial incentives.
Interestingly, he’s got a notable lineage—his grandfather, Andre Pronovost, won four Stanley Cups. At 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, he possesses impressive playing skills.
His former teammate Evgeni Malkin shared, “He’s a great player,” noting Mantha’s speed, physicality, and scoring ability.
Despite being drafted 20th overall by the Red Wings in 2013, Mantha’s career has had its ups and downs. Injuries and inconsistent seasons led to stints with the Capitals, Golden Knights, and Flames before he found a home in Pittsburgh last year.
Throughout his 13 years in the NHL, Mantha has participated in 588 games, amassing 179 goals and 188 assists, with a minus-3 rating. Last season marked a significant achievement for him, as he set career highs not just in goals and points, but also managed to hit the 80-game milestone for the second time.
His move to the Devils is part of a broader overhaul this offseason after New Jersey’s disappointing playoff miss. The team has also traded goaltender Jacob Markstrom to the Panthers and added forwards Evan Rodriguez, Jesper Boqvist, and Ben Steeves.
