Articles / These Summer Signings Already Look Like Trouble

These Summer Signings Already Look Like Trouble

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Pro Hockey Rumors
Dec 9, 2025 2:24 PM

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As the NHL season progresses, some of the summer signings are already raising eyebrows for the wrong reasons. Notably, players like Johnny Gaudreau, who made headlines during the offseason by signing with the Columbus Blue Jackets, have yet to live up to the expectations set by their lucrative contracts. In recent games, Gaudreau's performance has not matched the investment, leading fans to question if he can be a cornerstone for the team moving forward.

Similarly, the New Jersey Devils' acquisition of Ondrej Palat has not yielded the anticipated results. Despite his track record with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Palat has struggled to find his footing in New Jersey. His lack of production is becoming a point of concern as the Devils look to make a playoff push and require contributions from all their forwards.

The situation is no better for the Detroit Red Wings, where the signing of David Perron from the St. Louis Blues has also come under scrutiny. While Perron was seen as a key veteran addition to bolster a young team, inconsistency in his output has led to questions about his fit with the new system. The Wings are hoping he can turn it around, as they rely on his experience to guide the younger players.

As teams evaluate their roster moves amid mixed results, the pressure is on these players to deliver on their contracts. The scrutiny from fans and analysts alike continues to grow, leaving these summer signings in the spotlight as the season unfolds.