Simon Nemec remains under contract with the New Jersey Devils, having signed a three-year, entry-level contract in 2022. Reports suggesting the defenseman signed a five-year, $36.25 million deal with the Calgary Flames are factually incorrect and do not reflect the current status of the NHL player roster or official team transactions.
Understanding the Current Contract Status
Simon Nemec, selected second overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2022 NHL Draft, is currently playing under his initial entry-level contract. According to official records from CapFriendly and NHL.com, the Slovakian defenseman’s current deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $950,000.
The contract, which began in the 2022-23 season, is designed to bridge the gap between his professional development in Europe and his transition to the North American game. There has been no announcement from the New Jersey Devils or the NHL league office regarding a contract extension or a trade involving Nemec that would result in a $36.25 million valuation.
Why Accuracy Matters in NHL Transactions
In the modern sports media landscape, misinformation regarding player contracts often circulates through social media or unverified aggregators. Official confirmation for all NHL transactions is exclusively provided through:
- The NHL Public Relations Department: Official press releases confirming signings, trades, and roster moves.
- Central Registry: The league’s internal mechanism that verifies and registers every contract to ensure compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
- Team Websites: Official channels for the New Jersey Devils.
As of today, no such transaction exists within the league’s central registry.
Player Background and Performance
Simon Nemec has become a core piece of the Devils’ defensive unit since his debut. During the 2023-24 season, he appeared in 60 games for New Jersey, recording 19 points (3 goals, 16 assists). His development is closely monitored by the organization as they look to build a competitive blue line.
Because Nemec is still on his entry-level deal, he remains a restricted free agent (RFA) upon the expiration of his current contract, provided he meets the necessary service time requirements. This status gives the Devils exclusive negotiating rights, a standard procedure for high-round draft picks entering the final years of their initial agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Simon Nemec a free agent?
No. Simon Nemec is under contract with the New Jersey Devils. He is not currently eligible for unrestricted free agency.
Where can I find verified NHL contract information?
Reliable sources for NHL contract data include NHL.com, the NHLPA website, and professional salary tracking databases like CapFriendly or PuckPedia.
Did the Calgary Flames acquire Simon Nemec?
There have been no trades or transactions involving Simon Nemec moving to the Calgary Flames. He remains a member of the New Jersey Devils organization.