Articles / Why are young defensemen signing long term? 

Why are young defensemen signing long term? 

D
Daily Faceoff
Oct 3, 2025 5:00 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Daily Faceoff. Read the full original article here →

The article delves into the recent trend of young defensemen like Luke Hughes and Jackson Lacombe signing long-term contracts in the NHL, mirroring the path taken by stars such as Cale Makar. These young athletes are making substantial impacts on their respective teams, showcasing their skills and potential to become cornerstones for their franchises. With an increase in offensive contributions from defensemen in today’s game, teams are eager to lock in these talents for the future.

Luke Hughes, the highly-touted prospect from the New Jersey Devils, is positioning himself as a key player after an impressive start in his rookie season. Alongside him, Jackson Lacombe, recently signed by the Anaheim Ducks, is anticipated to add depth and creativity to the Ducks' blue line. The article highlights how both players represent the new wave of defensemen who are not only responsible defensively but also play a pivotal role in generating offense.

Furthermore, the success of established talents like Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche has set a precedent for young defensemen. Makar's ability to contribute both defensively and offensively attests to the evolving expectations of this position in the NHL. With teams looking for blue-liners who can contribute in multiple facets of the game, long-term contracts for these young players appear to be a strategic move for future success.