News - Rodrigues Prepares for a Breakout Season with the NJ Devils

Evan Rodrigues' 2025-26 campaign was marked by an inconsistent points performance, characterized by bursts of scoring followed by long dry spells. Closing the season on a decent note, Rodrigues now faces a new chapter with the New Jersey Devils, after being traded from the Panthers in a strategic move aimed at bolstering the Devils’ forward line. Alongside Jesper Boqvist and Ben Steeves, the trade saw Jacob Markstrom and Angus Crookshank move to the Panthers, signaling a bold off-season shuffle for the Devils. With the additions of Anthony Mantha and Luke Evangelista to the roster, the team is eyeing a revitalized forward lineup. In the 2026-27 season, expect to see Rodrigues transitioning into the Devils’ bottom six, where his experience will be invaluable for nurturing young talents like Arseny Gritsyuk. Despite spending much of his time in Florida among the Panthers' top six forwards, Rodrigues is anticipated to thrive in a key mentorship role as well as an active minutes manager, having averaged a solid 17:00 ice time last season. Entering the final year of his four-year contract—holding a $3.075 million average annual value (AAV)—Rodrigues is also on the verge of becoming an unrestricted free agent at 33. The upcoming season presents a unique opportunity for him to showcase his value, potentially securing future contracts by delivering strong performances under pressure. Moreover, as Rodrigues approaches significant career milestones, fans eagerly anticipate his 700th NHL game should he maintain a clean bill of health through the full 84-game season. Already surpassing the 100-goal marker and sitting with 107, he inches closer to the 300-point mark, needing just 30 more points. An additional landmark would be his 200th assist, requiring only 37 more. Each of these achievements hinges on a solid 2026-27 showing, where a repeat of his personal best of over 40 points seems within reach. In conclusion, the Devils' acquisition of Rodrigues is not just a tactical play for veteran proficiency but an investment in the development of their emerging stars. His performance this coming season could reverberate beyond personal milestones and into team ambitions, with potential to illustrate that age is merely a number in the fast-paced switches of the NHL.