The Calgary Flames have officially signed defenceman Simon Nemec to a five-year contract, with an average annual value of $7.25 million, totalling $36.25 million. This deal locks up the promising young blueliner through the 2030-31 NHL season. Nemec, who was acquired by the Flames from the New Jersey Devils on June 23, 2026, in exchange for future considerations including draft picks and prospect Etienne Morin, now enters a crucial phase of his career in Calgary.
The 22-year-old Slovakian native joins the Flames after a productive 2025-26 season with the Devils, where he posted a career-high 26 points in 68 games, including 11 goals and 15 assists. Nemec brings significant international experience, having represented Slovakia at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics and the 2022 Beijing Olympics, where his team secured a bronze medal. His impressive junior career also includes being named MVP of the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Nemec was the highest-drafted defenceman from Slovakia. His acquisition and subsequent contract signal a strategic investment by the Flames into a player with high potential and a track record of performance. This signing is a key move for the Flames as they aim to strengthen their roster and compete in the NHL. The team's management expressed confidence in Nemec's ability to contribute significantly to their long-term success.
