New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald confirmed he’s actively exploring trades as the team struggles through another disappointing season. The GM said he’s “working the phones daily” with less than two months until the trade deadline.
Dougie Hamilton and Ondrej Palat have emerged as the most discussed names in trade talks around the league.
“These are two respected players. They’re very respected in that locker room, and they will be treated with respect,”
Fitzgerald said during a media roundtable.
Hamilton, who carries a $9 million cap hit tied for the team’s highest, was benched Sunday against Winnipeg when Johnathan Kovacevic returned from injury. Coach Sheldon Keefe made the decision based purely on performance, according to Fitzgerald.
The 32-year-old defenseman has two years remaining on his contract beyond this season. He also holds a modified no-trade clause with 10 teams he can be traded to without permission.
Hamilton returned to the lineup Monday and recorded two assists in New Jersey’s 5-2 victory over Minnesota. He has 12 points in 41 games this season.
“Dougie’s here. He played really well that night, and when he plays his best hockey we’re a good team because he can add to that,”
Fitzgerald said.
Fitzgerald declined to comment on reports that Hamilton refused to waive his no-trade protection for a potential move to San Jose last summer.
Hamilton’s agent J.P. Barry confirmed he’s maintained regular communication with Devils management throughout the process.
Palat represents another veteran option for teams seeking playoff experience. The 34-year-old winger is signed through next season at a $6 million cap hit.
Palat scored twice in Monday’s win over Minnesota, ending New Jersey’s four-game losing streak. The two-time Stanley Cup champion with Tampa Bay in 2020 and 2021 has seen his role diminish significantly this season.
He’s averaging under 13 minutes of ice time and has just 10 points in 46 games.
“Ondrej, he’s a great pro, and he cares and he really wants to push and help. Our players admire him. No, his production isn’t where anybody envisioned it. But it was more the person, the experience to come in to help our young guys understand what winning looks like from his experience,”
Fitzgerald explained.
The Devils entered Wednesday sitting 13th in the 16-team Eastern Conference through 46 games. Fitzgerald repeatedly accepted responsibility for the team’s struggles.
“This is on me,”
he said multiple times during the session.
Captain Nico Hischier expressed confidence in his general manager’s approach.
“I know what Fitzy believes, and I know he believes in us. Our job is to do it on the ice and give something back to that belief in us.”
Keefe acknowledged the unique situation surrounding Hamilton but said he’s focused on internal messaging rather than external speculation.
“Things kind of blew up a little bit outside of that. But inside our walls, I knew what the message was to Dougie and that’s really all that I’m focused on.”
The trade deadline falls on March 7, giving Fitzgerald roughly seven weeks to decide whether to sell veteran pieces or make additions for a potential playoff push.
