Devils Bring Back Defenseman Topias Vilen on One-Year Contract

The New Jersey Devils have re-signed defenseman Topias Vilen to a one-year, two-way contract for the 2026-27 season. According to James Nichols of NJD Hockey Now, the deal carries an NHL salary of $850,000 and an AHL salary of $150,000. Vilen was the final restricted free agent remaining on New Jersey’s offseason list.

Another Opportunity to Earn an NHL Role

The new contract gives Vilen another chance to compete for a permanent spot on the Devils’ roster after a strong season with the AHL’s Utica Comets.

The 23-year-old produced a career-best 27 points in 61 games during the 2025-26 campaign, continuing his steady development. His performance earned him his NHL debut in April, where he appeared in two games for New Jersey. Although he did not record a point, the promotion was followed by a strong finish in the AHL, where he collected three points over his final two contests.

Consistent Production in Utica

Since arriving in North America, Vilen has established himself as one of Utica’s most dependable defensemen. Over the past three seasons, he has totaled 80 points in 173 games, leading the Comets’ blue line in both games played and overall scoring during that span despite the team’s struggles.

Among Utica defensemen, only Simon Nemec, Seamus Casey and Calen Addison have posted a higher points-per-game average over the same period.

Vilen also displayed his offensive upside during a brief stint in the ECHL in 2023-24, recording 10 points in just six games.

Steady Development Continues

A native of Finland, Vilen earned a reputation as a reliable two-way defenseman while progressing through the country’s junior hockey system. He made his Liiga debut in 2020 before the Devils selected him in the fifth round of the 2021 NHL Draft.

Although his path to the NHL has taken several years, Vilen has continued to make steady progress. With another productive season in Utica and a brief taste of NHL action already under his belt, the 2026-27 campaign could provide his best opportunity yet to secure a more permanent role with New Jersey.