Šimon Nemec trades to Calgary Flames, eyes seven‑year, $8 million‑per‑year contract

Slovak defenseman Šimon Nemec has been traded from the New Jersey Devils to the Calgary Flames after four NHL seasons. The deal sent Calgary two first‑round picks, a second‑round pick and prospect Etienne Morin to New Jersey, with the Flames also acquiring forward Maxim Tsyplakov.

Nemec said the move offers him greater ice time and a larger role, noting the club’s expectation that he play in the top defensive pairing and on special teams. He expressed enthusiasm about joining his fellow Slovaks Martin Pospíšil and Samuel Honzek in Calgary and hinted at signing a long‑term deal. Reports suggest a seven‑year contract worth roughly US$8 million per season, which would make him the highest‑paid Slovak player in the NHL and the top‑earning defenseman on the Flames roster.

The trade was confirmed in early June 2026, and Nemec’s brother is awaiting the NHL draft, adding a personal milestone to the transition.