The New Jersey Devils have dismissed general manager Tom Fitzgerald, marking another mid-season front office shakeup across the NHL.
Co-owner David Blitzer revealed Monday that the organization had decided to release Fitzgerald from his duties. Fitzgerald took over as general manager in January 2020 and received a promotion to president of hockey operations along with a contract extension earlier in 2024.
“Tom and I had a thoughtful conversation today and agreed it was time to move in a new direction,” Blitzer stated. “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.”
During his tenure, Fitzgerald helped develop much of the team’s foundation around star players Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes, both of whom were selected when he served as assistant to Ray Shero. The 57-year-old executive faced recent scrutiny for awarding contracts with limiting no-trade provisions and for extending Jacob Markstrom’s deal prematurely, ahead of the goaltender’s performance issues.
“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 commented. “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.”
Under Fitzgerald’s leadership, New Jersey reached the playoffs twice across five seasons, advancing to the second round in 2023 before falling in the opening round the following 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 explained. “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.”
The dismissal raises questions about head coach Sheldon Keefe’s status, as he approaches the conclusion of his second season. Fitzgerald brought Keefe aboard in May 2024.
Having participated in USA Hockey’s management team that assembled the gold medal-winning Olympic roster for Milan Cortina, Fitzgerald may quickly emerge as a contender for other general manager openings league-wide. Both the Nashville Predators, following Barry Trotz’s retirement, and the Toronto Maple Leafs, after dismissing Brad Treliving, are actively seeking new hockey operations leadership.
“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 expressed. “I look forward to the next step in my hockey career and will always look back fondly on my time with the Devils.”
Fitzgerald’s playing history includes stints in Nashville and Toronto. He served as Nashville’s inaugural captain from 1998-2002 under coach Trotz and spent two seasons with Toronto from 2002-2004.
Following his transition to management, Fitzgerald held the position of director of player development when Pittsburgh captured the Stanley Cup in 2009. He joined the Devils organization in 2015.
