Devils Land Top Free Agent Prize I BLOG

The New Jersey Devils caught the biggest fish on the free agent market after
agreeing to terms with defenseman Dougie Hamilton
to a seven-year, $63 million contract Wednesday, a average annual value o $9 million per season.
Defensemen of Hamilton's caliber don't hit the free agent market often. He's got everything you want in a blueliner: size, mobility, skill, a deadly shot and strong in his own zone. He can transform a power-play. And he's only 28 years old, meaning he's still in his prime with a lot left in the tank.
First thing's first, Hamilton is a right shot. Quality right-shot defenseman are very hard to find, let alone a right-shot at the level of a Hamilton. They are very coveted in the league and always in high demand because of their rarity.

Hamilton, a Toronto native, has incredible size at 6-foot-6, 229 pounds. That's a big body to help clear the crease and win puck battles. He has a long reach to take away space, passing lanes and close gaps. For a big guy, Hamilton is extremely mobile and skates well. And his breakout passes are on point and deadly.
Hamilton's offensive talented goes without saying. He's got a hard shot and scored more goals in the last four years (59) than any other NHL defenseman, and that includes missing time to recover from a leg injury.
Hamilton's presence immediately makes the Devils' defensive unit better, more balanced and more dynamic. He adds a veteran offensive threat from the right side. Hamilton, who logged over 22 minutes of ice time per game last year, will be a great fit in the Devils' system with his offensive instincts. His outlet passes will help the Devils establish their speed game and allow them to play the aggressive and attacking hockey that Lindy Ruff desires.