Official: Devils’ Erik Haula Signs Three-Year Extension
Kevin Weekes was the first to report.
Mar 19, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; New Jersey Devils left wing Erik Haula (56) stretches during warm-ups against Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-USA TODAY Sports - Official: Devils’ Erik Haula Signs Three-Year ExtensionNEWARK, N.J. -- On June 23, New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald announced they re-signed 32-year-old Erik Haula to a three-year, $9.4 million contract.
"When I traded for Erik, we talked about how he was the type of player that we needed to help us continue to move the group forward," said Fitzgerald in the team's press release. "He played key minutes in all situations throughout the season- power play, penalty kill, taking faceoffs- and provided leadership for our team. At the end of the season, he told me how much he wanted to be a part of what we are building here in New Jersey, and I'm glad we could quickly get a deal done that gives him a place to lay down roots with his family."
During his end-of-season media availability, Haula made it clear his goal was to continue to play for the Devils.
"I don't want to play for any other team. I want to come back here," he said.
Over the span of 80 games, the versatile forward became an integral part of New Jersey's team. He took on the role of a vocal leader in the locker room and reached the 40-point mark for the third time in his career.
Offensively he was snake-bitten to begin the season but found other ways to contribute, becoming a key contributor to the penalty kill and an asset in the face-off circle. During the postseason, he collected six points in 12 games. His four goals were second-most on the team behind Jack Hughes.
The Devils became the seventh organization he played for since the 2016-17 season, and during his exit interview, he admitted that he had "mixed emotions" when he was told the Boston Bruins traded him to New Jersey.
On May 17, Fitzgerald held his end-of-season media availability and said, "I want people who want to be here. They have to want to be here for the right reasons."
Hearing how both sides felt, seeing the veteran sign a deal before free agency begins is not a surprise. Haula became a favorite among his teammates, and when Hughes spoke with reporters on May 13, he did not hold back when asked about his linemate, saying, "I'm a huge Erik Haula fan."