Heading into July 1, former Montreal Canadien Jake Allen was the clear top pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) goalie who could hit the market. Due to this, there was expected to be a ton of interest in the 34-year-old, and he was in a position to land a high average annual value (AAV) had he tested the market.

However, shortly before free agency opened, Allen signed a five-year, $9 million contract to stay with the New Jersey Devils. This is undoubtedly one of the most unique NHL signings of the summer. 

You simply don't see many soon-to-be 35-year-old backup/1B goalies land five-year contracts, so that alone makes this deal so fascinating. Yet, with the Devils giving Allen so much term, they were able to drop his AAV to only $1.8 million. This is far below what many expected Allen's cap hit to be, so that also makes it a unique signing. It is also a complete steal for the Devils.

In the end, the Devils and Allen found a way to get a deal that benefits both of them. Allen gained plenty of job security by getting five years, while the Devils were able to keep his AAV at an affordable price. Now, the former Canadiens goalie will be a long-term part of New Jersey's roster from here. 

It is certainly good for the Devils that they kept Allen around, as he has worked well as Jacob Markstrom's backup. In 31 games this past season for New Jersey, he recorded a .908 save percentage and a 2.66 goals-against average. 

Allen spent four seasons with the Canadiens from 2020-21 to 2023-24. In 127 games with Montreal, he posted a 41-68-15 record, a .899 save percentage, a 3.30 goals-against average, and three shutouts. His time with the Canadiens ended when he was traded to the Devils at the 2024 NHL trade deadline. 

Exciting Canadiens Prospect Is Prime Breakout CandidateThe Montreal Canadiens have several promising young players in their system. Oliver Kapanen is undoubtedly among them, as the young forward has the tools to blossom into an impactful player for the Canadiens as he continues to adjust to the NHL level. 

Photo Credit: © Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images