The New Jersey Devils re-signed RFA defenseman Kevin Bahl to a two-year, $1.05 million AAV contract on Monday.
Bahl emerged as a stable defender on the third pairing for the Devils last season. He was consistently in the lineup by February of 2023. In 42 games he only had two goals and six assists for eight points, but his defensive capabilities made up for those shortcomings. He had a 58.21 xGF percentage in the 2022-23 season, his on-ice impact was a net positive.
Furthermore, his 6-foot-6, 230 pound frame made him a force in puck battles. He’s also not one to shy away from dirty work, having multiple fights throughout the season, and even having one in the playoffs. His age is on the younger side at only 23 years old, so he should only progress.
The Devils acquired Kevin Bahl in the trade that sent Taylor Hall to the Arizona Coyotes in December 2019. He was a second round pick by Arizona in the 2018 draft. The Devils have gotten what they wanted out of Bahl up to this point.
Bahl is a part of the Devils’ youth movement on defense along with Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec. He projects to be a mainstay on New Jersey’s blueline for the next couple of years and maybe further beyond.
Stay tuned for more New Jersey Devils and NHL content, including trades, signings, and various updates.
Featured image courtesy of NHL.com
You can “Like” The Game Haus on Facebook and “Follow” us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from other great TGH writers along with Cameron!
“From Our Haus to Yours”
