Former Devils First-Round Pick Faces Unexpected Career Crossroads Just Before Training Camp
Training camps across the NHL are buzzing with anticipation, yet a handful of restricted free agents—five to be exact—are still waiting in the wings, unsigned and ready to make a move. Topping this intriguing list are Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils and Mason McTavish representing the Anaheim Ducks. But here’s a twist—one of those waiting is no stranger to Devils fans: Alexander Holtz. Just this past April, Holtz wrapped up his debut season with the Vegas Golden Knights after being part of a trade that sent him and Akira Schmid from New Jersey in exchange for Paul Cotter and a future third-round draft pick. Vegas GM Kelly McCrimmon swung for the fences on Holtz’s potential, believing a change of scenery could unlock a young player’s promise—and it’s a gamble that may well pay dividends. Splitting his time between Vegas and their AHL affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights, Holtz put up solid numbers, showing flashes of brilliance that hint at a flourishing career ahead. Having been drafted seventh overall back in 2020, his development has been a focal point of attention ever since. If you’re keen on tracking Holtz’s journey and the latest buzz around these unsigned RFAs, stay tuned—you won’t want to miss how this storyline unfolds.
With training camps opening up around the NHL, five players remain unsigned restricted free agents (RFAs). Headlining that list is New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes and Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish.
A former Devil is also on that list: Alexander Holtz.
In April, he concluded his first season with the Vegas Golden Knights organization after New Jersey traded him and Akira Schmid for Paul Cotter and a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
At the time of the trade, Vegas general manager Kelly McCrimmon told reporters, “We are taking a swing at his upside and what a change can do sometimes for young players. We have seen (that) with different players who have been brought into Vegas needing a change and have benefited by that change. That was the motivation behind acquiring Alexander Holtz. He is still a young player, and we think he is going to fit into our lineup and contribute and grow his game here.
Holtz split his time in the NHL with the Golden Knights and the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Henderson Silver Knights.
In Sin City, the winger appeared in 53 games, collecting 12 points (four goals, eight assists). With the AHL club, he scored seven goals and earned 13 points in 16 games.
His 2024-25 salary cap hit was $894,167.
During his tenure with the Devils, Holtz appeared in 110 games over three seasons. He potted 19 goals and recorded 34 points. At the 2020 NHL Draft, New Jersey drafted him seventh overall.
Make sure you bookmark THN’s New Jersey Devils site for THN’s latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
Hischier’s Manager Patrick Fischer: ‘He’s Driven to Succeed, but Not Easily
Related Posts
Post Comment