What happened: New Jersey added the 24-year-old winger from Nashville. The deal sends a conditional first-round selection via Colorado and New Jersey's 2028 second-round pick to the Predators.
Why it matters: Evangelista gives the Devils another top-nine wing option after they finished 12 points outside the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot in 2025-26. Nashville gains draft capital and opens additional forward ice time.
By the numbers: Evangelista recorded 12 goals and a He has one season left on a contract carrying a $3 million average annual value before restricted free agency after 2026-27.
What to watch: How New Jersey deploys Evangelista in its forward group will come into focus during training camp. Nashville's resulting lineup openings will also be watched ahead of 2026-27.