The Montreal Canadiens have officially signed centre Jake Evans to a four-year contract extension worth $11.4 million, announced on March 4, 2025. The new deal, which takes effect next season, includes an average annual value of $2.85 million, ensuring Evans stays with the team through the 2028-29 season. This move solidifies Evans’ position within the Canadiens and removes him from trade discussions leading up to the deadline.
Evans, aged 28, has been enjoying his best statistical season to date. With 12 goals and 16 assists for 28 points over 61 games, he is just one point shy of tying his career high. Notably, Evans has displayed his strength on the penalty kill, ranking second among NHL forwards with 2:52 minutes of short-handed ice time per game. His solid defensive contributions and ability to perform under pressure have made him an invaluable asset to the Canadiens.
Originally drafted by the Canadiens as the 207th pick overall in the seventh round of the 2014 NHL Draft, Evans has come a long way since his debut on February 6, 2020. His initial game saw him paired with notable players Max Domi and Ilya Kovalchuk, but he made it clear from the start he envisioned himself as a bottom-six forward, focusing on playing to his strengths such as penalty killing and faceoffs.
“Listen, I don’t see myself as a top-six forward in the NHL,” Evans remarked before his first call-up. “I’ll be a bottom-six guy and that's what I need to focus on, getting to be good at the things to let me play this role.” This mindset has guided him throughout his career, leading to improved performances and, now, his first major contract extension.
His previous contract, signed just months ago, was worth $1.7 million annually. His rapid development and increased influence within the team may have prompted this timely extension as he approached unrestricted free agency on July 1. The Canadiens were not inclined to overpay Evans but recognized his value as they moved forward, gearing up for the playoffs.
“Jakey’s a big part of our group, does so much for us,” said veteran forward Brendan Gallagher after the Canadiens’ recent win against the Buffalo Sabres. “He’s done everything he could, he’s controlled what he can control, and played good hockey. We love Jakey; we love to have him around.”
Despite being only one point behind the Detroit Red Wings for the last playoff spot, the Canadiens have been riding high with their performance, claiming victory after victory, including the recent 4-3 overtime thriller against the Sabres. They currently hold a record of 30-26-5 and are feeling the pressure with the trade deadline looming on March 8.
With Evans’ new contract, he reflects on his homegrown roots and importance within the Canadiens organization. “So excited for the next four years and so happy I get to stay here,” Evans expressed through the team’s social media platforms. This contract marks not just financial gain but also stability and continuity for Evans with the team he has represented since joining the league.
His performance on the ice, especially considering he has contributed to Montreal’s penalty kill success, speaks volumes about his growth as player. He has always focused on being effective rather than seeking personal accolades. This philosophy has served him well, as he is now part of the larger success of the Canadiens, capable of helping the team push for playoff contention.
Heading forward, the negotiations surrounding Evans’ contract serve as both recognition of his hard work and alignment with the current trends within the league. With the salary cap set to rise significantly over the next several years, it’s important for the Canadiens to balance their roster around players like Evans who can provide depth and reliability.
Looking at the future, Evans aims to continue the upward trend his career has taken, enjoying the financial and emotional security offered by this new deal. The Canadiens are confident this will be mutually beneficial, continuing to deliver strong performances as they strive to make their way back to playoff contention.
For Evans, locking down this contract with the Canadiens will allow him to focus on his game knowing he has four secure years to improve and make significant contributions. “I have earned it by doing exactly what I set out to do,” he expressed, confident about his role on the team.
After having expressed disbelief at the sum he received just months ago, he now embraces the chance he has to succeed within the team he has been part of through his NHL career. The future looks bright for Evans, and the Canadiens remain optimistic as the playoffs approach.