04/06/26 06:48:00
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04/06 18:46 CDT New Jersey Devils part ways with longtime general manager Tom
Fitzgerald
New Jersey Devils part ways with longtime general manager Tom Fitzgerald
By STEPHEN WHYNO
AP Hockey Writer
Tom Fitzgerald is out as general manager of the New Jersey Devils, the latest
NHL team to make an abrupt late-season change in the front office or behind the
bench.
Co-owner David Blitzer announced Monday that a decision had been made for
Fitzgerald to leave the organization. Fitzgerald had been GM since January 2020
and got the title president of hockey operations early in 2024, along with a
contract extension.
"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."
The 57-year-old Fitzgerald was responsible for building much of the core of the
roster around top picks Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes, who were drafted when he
was an assistant to Ray Shero. He endured criticism in recent months and years
for signing players to contracts with restrictive no-trade clauses and for
extending goaltender Jacob Markstrom early.
"After talking with David Blitzer, it was apparent to everyone that the best
course of action is to move on for the benefit of the team," Fitzgerald said.
"The Devils are fortunate to have a core of great players, vocal and passionate
fans, but most importantly, tremendous people who worked with me toward a
common goal. I've always said that New Jersey is a hidden gem, and I'm proud of
the effort that we put in to raise the standard and make it a destination."
New Jersey made the playoffs twice in the five seasons with Fitzgerald in
charge, losing in the second round in 2023 and bowing out in the first round
last year.
"As we prepare to move forward, it is important I acknowledge our fans: I
recognize we have not delivered in the way you expect and deserve and I
understand and share in your frustration," Blitzer said. "This is a critical
offseason for our franchise, and we will explore all avenues that best position
the Devils to compete for a Stanley Cup once again."
Fitzgerald, who was part of USA Hockey's management group that constructed the
roster that won gold at the Milan Cortina Olympics, could immediately become a
candidate for one of the other GM vacancies around the league. The Nashville
Predators with Barry Trotz retiring and Toronto Maple Leafs after firing Brad
Treliving are currently searching for a new head of hockey operations.
"I am incredibly appreciative to David, Josh Harris, and the entire New Jersey
Devils organization for being a part of my life for the past decade,"
Fitzgerald said. "I look forward to the next step in my hockey career and will
always look back fondly on my time with the Devils."
Fitzgerald spent time in Nashville and Toronto during his playing career. He
was the first captain of the Predators, wearing the "C" from 1998-02 while
Trotz was coaching the team and played two seasons with the Maple Leafs from
'02-04.
After going into management, Fitzgerald was director of player development when
Pittsburgh won the Stanley Cup in 2009. He joined the Devils in 2015.
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