Former New Jersey Devils forward Daniel Sprong has signed a one-year contract with CSKA Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). This move comes after a difficult 2024-25 season for the 28-year-old winger, who split time between three NHL teams: the Vancouver Canucks, Seattle Kraken, and the Devils.

Sprong's journey in the NHL has been marked by flashes of offensive potential but also inconsistency. Over nine seasons, he has played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, Seattle Kraken, Detroit Red Wings, Vancouver Canucks, and New Jersey Devils, amassing 87 goals and 79 assists for 166 points in 374 games.

In the 2022-23 season with the Seattle Kraken, Sprong recorded career highs with 21 goals and 46 points in 66 games. He followed that up with a solid 2023-24 campaign with the Detroit Red Wings, where he scored 18 goals and 43 points in 76 games. However, his production dipped significantly in 2024-25, as he registered just two goals and seven points in 30 games across his stints with the Canucks, Kraken, and Devils. He also contributed 11 goals and 25 points in 19 AHL games with the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

Prior to signing with CSKA Moscow, Sprong was reportedly drawing interest from two KHL clubs, CSKA Moscow and Avangard Omsk. Sport-Express, a Russian media outlet, noted that Avangard's head coach, Guy Boucher, had a particular interest in acquiring Sprong.

While Sprong had expressed a desire to re-sign with the New Jersey Devils, citing Sheldon Keefe as his favorite NHL coach, he ultimately decided to take his talents to the KHL. Known for his offensive capabilities, particularly his powerful shot, Sprong has also faced criticism for his defensive game. Some reports suggest that a perceived sense of entitlement and a stubborn attitude may have hindered his progress in the NHL.

CSKA Moscow is one of the KHL's premier teams. Sprong's offensive skills could make him a valuable asset in the KHL.