New Jersey parting ways with GM Tom Fitzgerald

The New Jersey Devils are headed toward another offseason without postseason hockey. After making it last season, they are set to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2026. This is a disappointing result, and unfortunately, general manager Tom Fitzgerald won’t get another chance to make things right.

The Devils are moving on from Fitzgerald, as first reported by The Athletic’s Chris Johnston. This news was confirmed by the Devils on social media, who released a statement from managing partner David Blitzer in the process.

“Tom and I had a thoughtful conversation today and agreed it was time to move in a new direction,” Blitzer said. “Tom changed the trajectory of our team here, including setting a franchise record for points in a season and helping make New Jersey a hockey destination. He is a well-respected leader across the Devils’ organization and NHL, and I am grateful for our friendship. I wish Tom and his family all the best.”

Fitzgerald joined the Devils in 2015 as an assistant general manager. He became interim general manager in January 2020 after the team moved on from Ray Shero. In July of that year, he became the full-time general manager of the franchise.

His time with the Devils was marked by some big moves for the likes of Timo Meier and Jacob Markstrom. However, it may be remembered most for the move he failed to make. New Jersey was in trade talks for defenseman Quinn Hughes earlier this season. Hughes, whose brother Luke plays for the Devils, was eventually traded to the Minnesota Wild.

Fitzgerald also handcuffed his team through some of his dealings. Mainly, the Devils lead the league in no-movement and no-trade protections handed out. This will be a challenge the next decision-maker will need to address. It will certainly be interesting to see the direction the Devils elect to take their general manager search this spring.

The New Jersey Devils are headed toward another offseason without postseason hockey. After making it last season, they are set to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2026. This is a disappointing result, and unfortunately, general manager Tom Fitzgerald won’t get another chance to make things right.