NHL Rumors: 13-Year Veteran Defenseman Looking For NHL Job

Wednesday, August 13, 2025 , , , , ,
New York Rangers defenseman Calvin De Haan skates during 2025 game.

Calvin de Haan faces an uncertain NHL future as he enters free agency for the fifth time in four years. 

The 34-year-old defenseman, who brings reliable depth play and defensive responsibility, remains unsigned despite signing early in previous free-agent periods. His limited offensive output and a career marked by inconsistent games played (with only one full 82-game season in 2009’s draft class) have made teams hesitate.

Calvin de Haan Faces Uncertain NHL Future But Could Still Land a Roster Spot

De Haan’s 2024-25 season was tough, splitting time between the Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers. Despite strong underlying stats and defensive zone starts, he only managed eight assists in 47 games. His playing style, which favors a safe, stay-at-home approach with penalty-killing ability, has fallen out of favor in an NHL increasingly valuing size, physicality, and puck-moving prowess. 

Moreover, his vocal frustrations over limited playing time and treatment with the Rangers may raise concerns for some teams, even though he’s known as a good teammate.

At this stage in his career, de Haan’s best chance to extend his NHL tenure is likely a one-year, low-cost deal or professional tryout offer. Alternatively, he could explore playing overseas, but with strong local ties and a burgeoning post-hockey business (a brewery in his hometown of Carp, Ontario), he may prioritize staying close to home. 

Despite the rough go as of late, his skill set and experience make it likely he’ll find at least one more NHL opportunity in 2025-26. Over his 13-year career, the 34-year-old has recorded 24 goals, 149 total points, 1,344 hits, 1,317 blocked shots, and a -6 plus/minus rating across 679 games played.

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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