Calvin de Haan remains without contract as 2025-26 NHL season approaches
Veteran defenseman Calvin de Haan's NHL future remains uncertain as the 34-year-old enters mid-August without a contract for the 2025-26 season. The Carp, Ontario native, who has played 13 seasons in the league, is no stranger to late-summer free agency decisions.
But this year's prolonged wait raises questions over whether the former 12th overall pick will return to the NHL or seek opportunities elsewhere.
Veteran defenseman Calvin de Haan still seeking NHL contract in 2025-26 Free Agency
De Haan is navigating his fifth stint as an unrestricted free agent, four of which have occurred in the past four summers. While many depth veterans often sign late, he inked early-July deals in the previous two years. In 2024-25, split between the Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers, he recorded eight assists in 47 games, posting a solid 50.7% Corsi despite starting nearly two-thirds of his shifts in the defensive zone.
Durability concerns remain a major obstacle. De Haan has played over 70 games only three times in his career and just once over 80. At 34, teams may view his limited availability and age as risks, especially in a league increasingly favoring younger, more durable options. Rebuilding teams may prefer to give prospects ice time, while contenders might not see him as a clear top-six fit.
Playing style, NHL market dynamics, and future options for Calvin de Haan
Known for his safe, defensive-first style and penalty-killing ability, de Haan brings reliability but lacks standout size, physicality, or puck-moving skills that many general managers prioritize.
His hitting has declined with age, and he typically defers passing duties to more skilled partners.
Off the ice, his outspoken comments about his reduced role with the Rangers last season could give some clubs pause, though his reputation as a good teammate remains intact. If NHL opportunities do not materialize, de Haan could explore playing overseas, following the path of other veterans. Alternatively, he might focus on his brewery and restaurant in Carp, which has become a local staple.
With the NHL season rapidly approaching, Calvin de Haan's window to secure a contract is narrowing. His experience, defensive reliability, and leadership could still appeal to the right team, but market conditions and roster dynamics may force him to consider options beyond the NHL. Whether he plays another season or transitions to life after hockey, de Haan's next move will likely come soon.
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