James Nichols
Arseny Gritsyuk is seeking a multi-year contract extension with the New Jersey Devils, New Jersey Hockey Now has learned.
Fresh off a solid rookie NHL campaign in which he recorded 13 goals and 31 points in 66 games, the 25-year-old Russian winger is looking to capitalize on his strong first season in North America.
A source close to the situation told New Jersey Hockey Now that the Gritsyuk camp is pushing for a deal longer than two years.
Gritsyuk’s current one-year entry-level contract, which carries a $925,000 cap hit, is set to expire on July 1. The former fifth-round pick (129th overall in 2019) spent several seasons developing in the KHL before signing with the Devils in May 2025.
The source described the ongoing talks as “very good,” adding that negotiations are progressing well from both sides.
Gritsyuk missed the final stretch of the 2025-26 season with an upper-body injury that required surgery, but his performance prior to the injury—including a gradual move up the lineup and strong two-way play—left a positive impression on the organization.
At 6-foot, 195 pounds, Gritsyuk brought a reliable blend of hockey IQ, shooting ability, and defensive responsibility in his debut season. He also built clear chemistry with center Cody Glass and wingers Lenni Hameenaho and Connor Brown, although there’s hope he can force his way to a role in New Jersey’s top-six.
His 31 points ranked among the top rookies, providing the Devils with secondary scoring depth they have long sought on the wings.
With Gritsyuk a restricted free agent, inking him to a multi-year extension is a step toward stabilizing the core of the forward group.
AFP Analytics projects Gritsyuk’s contract to carry an average annual value of $3,045,789 on a two-year contract.
Long-term, Gritsyuk is projected at a $5,889,990 AAV over five seasons.
