Devils sign Mike Hardman to two-year, two-way contract
A talented minor-leaguer is getting a new start on the East Coast.
On Monday, the New Jersey Devils signed forward Mike Hardman to a two-year, two-way contract. The deal will carry a $775,000 AAV through the 2025-26 season, with a $350,000 salary in the minors.
The #NJDevils signed 25 y/o F Mike Hardman to 2 year deal
NHL 775K
Minors 350K
22G 37P in 63 AHL GP
Rep'd by @BuckleySports https://t.co/QPPxPVBbhB
It is a small pay cut for Hardman, as he just finished up a two-year contract with a cap hit of $800,000 per season.
It will be a change of scenery for Hardman, as he has spent the entirety of his professional career with the Chicago Blackhawks. The Hanover, Massachusetts native was signed out of college in 2021 after two years at Boston College. He split his first two full seasons between the Hawks and their American Hockey League affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.
After a down 2022-23 season, Hardman was one of the top players in Rockford. In 63 games, the former Des Moines Buccaneer scored 22 goals and 15 assists for 37 points, all career-best numbers. However, Hardman didn’t get the chance to play in the NHL during the 2023-24 campaign.
He has played a total of 37 games in the NHL, scoring a goal and four assists. In 164 AHL games, Hardman registered 46 goals and 41 assists, including four points in 14 Calder Cup Playoff appearances.
While at Boston College, the 25-year-old scored 22 goals and 22 assists in 58 games. He cut his teeth at a notable prep program, The Winchendon School, in his home state.
As a result of the signing, the Devils have 39 players under standard player contracts for next season. According to CapFriendly, New Jersey will have a little over $6 million in projected space for the 2024-25 campaign.