Devils Trade Palat to Islanders in Exchange for Tsyplakov
In a significant move, the New Jersey Devils traded Ondrej Palat to the New York Islanders on Tuesday, January 24, 2024. This trade marks a notable shift for both teams as the Devils aimed to reshape their roster.
Trade Details: Devils and Islanders
The Devils received Maxim Tsyplakov in exchange for Palat. Additionally, the Islanders included a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and a sixth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. This strategic exchange emphasizes both teams’ forward-looking plans.
Player Profiles
- Ondrej Palat:
- Age: 34
- Contract: One season remaining on a five-year, $30 million deal
- Performance: Accumulated 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 51 games this season
- Career Stats: 515 points (181 goals, 334 assists) in 876 regular-season games
- Playoff Success: 103 points (51 goals, 52 assists) in 155 games, with two Stanley Cup titles from 2020 and 2021
- Maxim Tsyplakov:
- Age: 27
- Performance: Two points (1 goal, 1 assist) in 27 games this season
- Prior Season: 35 points (10 goals, 25 assists) in 77 games as a rookie
- Contract: Signed a two-year deal with the Islanders on July 25, 2023
Reactions and Impact
Devils coach Sheldon Keefe remarked on Palat’s departure, highlighting his leadership and work ethic. “We’re going to miss ‘Pally,’ he sets the example in many ways,” Keefe stated following a recent loss to the Winnipeg Jets.
Devils captain Nico Hischier echoed similar sentiments, stating, “It’s never easy to see a guy go like that. He taught us a lot.” Their words encapsulate the impact Palat had both on and off the ice during his tenure.
On the other hand, the Islanders, currently sitting third in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 28-19-5, are looking to bolster their roster. The trading of Palat may provide them additional experience and depth as they strive for playoff success.
Current Standings
The Devils hold a record of 27-24-2, currently sitting sixth in the Metropolitan Division. They trail the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins, who occupy the two wild card spots in the Eastern Conference by nine points.
This trade signifies a pivotal moment for both franchises as they navigate the remainder of the season, with each aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the league.
