New Jersey Devils Dismiss GM Tom Fitzgerald
The New Jersey Devils have dismissed their general manager, Tom Fitzgerald. The team announced the move on April 6, 2026.
Announcement and leadership change
Managing partner David Blitzer made the public announcement. Fitzgerald had served in the organization for more than a decade.
He joined the Devils’ front office in 2015. He became general manager in 2020.
Expanded role before departure
In January 2024, Fitzgerald added the title of president of hockey operations. He retained his GM responsibilities while serving in that role.
A league source told Filmogaz.com that Fitzgerald still had one season left on his contract. The contract detail raises immediate questions for the club.
Roster issues left unresolved
Several roster matters remain unsettled heading into the offseason. These will likely shape the new management’s priorities.
- Dougie Hamilton’s future. His agent, J.P. Barry, publicly suggested working to find a new team after a healthy scratch.
- No trade at the deadline. Hamilton was not moved before the March 6 trade deadline.
- Defense-for-offense balancing. Fitzgerald hinted after the deadline he would try to move a defenseman to add forwards.
- Trade market interest. The Devils were reported to be listening on prospect Simon Nemec before the deadline.
How the vacancy will be viewed
The GM opening should attract strong interest around the league. The roster features several star players and upside.
Many candidates will see the job as a chance to lead a quick turnaround. New management must decide how to handle pending issues.
Next steps for the franchise
The organization will begin its search for a new hockey operations leader immediately. Timeline and interim arrangements were not specified.
Front-office changes will influence trade plans and contract decisions this offseason. The Devils face a consequential summer.
