Devils Add Goaltender Jakub Malek in Two‑Year Deal

Why New Jersey Made the Signing

New Jersey’s general manager, Sunny Mehta, has repeatedly said the Devils are never finished when the roster window opens. Even a modest acquisition can reshape a roster, and Mehta’s track record with the Florida Panthers shows how a small move can tip the balance toward a championship squad. The organization views each contract as a building block rather than a headline‑grabbing splash.

Jacketing the new goaltender, 24‑year‑old Jakub Malek, the Devils announced a two‑year, two‑way pact. For the 2026‑27 season he will earn $850,000 at the NHL level and $175,000 in the AHL. The following year’s deal calls for $900,000 north of the crease and $275,000 in the minors, with $300,000 guaranteed across both seasons.

Malek’s Immediate Impact

The rookie impressed during training camp and then split time between ECHL Adirondack and AHL Utica. He posted a 14‑14‑6 record with a .897 save percentage across both circuits. The highlight came when Malek recorded a 25‑save shutout against the Belleville Senators in the AHL.

His performance suggests he could provide depth for the Devils’ goaltending carousel. The two‑way structure lets New Jersey evaluate him at the top level while still developing his skill set in the minors. As the organization continues to strengthen its AHL presence in Utica, Malek’s role will be watched closely.

Steeves Joins the Mix

Forward Ben Steeves, acquired as part of the Jacob Markstrom deal, signed a one‑year, two‑way contract worth $850,000 at the NHL level and $150,000 in the AHL. The 24‑year‑old tallied 45 points (23 goals, 22 assists) in 72 games with AHL Charlotte. Steeves also brings physical presence, accumulating 100 penalty minutes last season.

His blend of scoring touch and grit aligns with GM Mehta’s emphasis on building a rugged AHL roster in Utica. The contract gives the Devils flexibility to assess Steeves at the top tier while grooming him for a potential role in the minors. This signing underscores the Devils’ strategy of leveraging smaller contracts to fill situational needs.

Roster Outlook and Cap Considerations

With $7.6 million in available cap space, the Devils still have room for additional moves before Opening Night. Mehta’s philosophy suggests they will continue exploring options, especially given the depth still needed in the AHL system. History shows that a well‑timed, lower‑cost addition can become a cornerstone of a championship team.

Both Malek and Steeves exemplify the kind of developmental signings that have propelled playoff runs for Mehta’s former club, the Florida Panthers. As the Devils fine‑tune their lineup, these two contracts may prove to be the subtle adjustments that push the team over the edge when the postseason arrives.