Luke Evangelista signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Nashville Predators, locking in a $3 million annual value as he heads into his 23-year-old season. Last year he tallied 32 points (10 goals, 22 assists) in 68 games after being selected 42nd overall in 2020; in 172 regular-season appearances he has 86 points and six playoff games yielded one goal. The Predators open the season against the Columbus Blue Jackets, giving Evangelista a clear runway to cement a role on a rebuilding club.

Luke Hughes signed a seven-year, $63 million extension with the New Jersey Devils, carrying a $9 million cap hit through 2031-32—$1 million more per season than his brother Jack. The deal comes as Hughes, one of the last unsigned RFAs, sat out camp during negotiations.

With the extension, Hughes becomes a cornerstone on NJD’s blue line, a prime fantasy target for top-pair minutes and power-play ice time in a deep lineup. The market for young talent, including McTavish and Evangelista, remains hot, underscoring the value of securing impact players early.

Luke Hughes remains unsigned with the Devils as camp approaches, with a cautious market and no immediate movement. Luke Evangelista’s status with Nashville hasn’t progressed, as the Predators signal a different-season approach. Lukas Reichel is on Chicago’s trade radar, and Jack Quinn’s $3.37M deal is used as a benchmark for other RFAs. Bedard’s preseason role and surrounding Leafs/Rangers chatter reflect a wary market. The Ducks’ example shows how fast deals can land, so track Hughes’ signing timeline, Reichel’s destination, and Quinn’s leverage for fantasy value.