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4w ago

Devils Sign David Rittich to One-Year, $1M One-Way Deal

New Jersey gains low-cost veteran depth that preserves short-term cap flexibility, creating a clear path for Nico Daws to compete for NHL minutes.

Apr 14, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders goaltender David Rittich (33) makes a glove save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The Devils signed 33-year-old goaltender David Rittich to a one-year, $1 million one-way contract on Friday, and reports say the deal carries no trade protections.
  • The signing follows New Jersey’s trade of Jacob Markström and the two-year re-signing of prospect Nico Daws, leaving Jake Allen, Daws and Rittich as the club’s primary goaltenders entering training camp.
  • Rittich appeared in 30 games for the New York Islanders in 2025–26 with a 14-10-3 record, a 2.76 goals-against average, a .894 save percentage and a +4.2 goals-saved-above-expected (GSAx) figure that teams cited in justifying the pickup.
  • Both Rittich and Daws would need to clear waivers to be sent to the AHL affiliate Utica Comets, which will limit how the Devils manage a potential three-goalie group and shape in-season roster moves.
  • Management frames the move as a cap-conscious, short-term option that supplies experienced insurance, gives Daws a real chance to earn NHL playing time, and leaves the front office room to add or trade goaltending later if needed.