The New Jersey Devils announced that the organization is parting ways with president of hockey operations and general manager Tom Fitzgerald.
The Devils sit seventh in the Metropolitan Division and 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 40-34-3 record.
#BREAKING: New Jersey Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer announced today that Tom Fitzgerald will depart the organization.
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) April 6, 2026
“Tom and I had a thoughtful conversation today and agreed it was time to move in a new direction,” Devils managing partner David Blitzer said in a release.
“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. 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. 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 has been in the role for the club since July 9, 2020, after former GM Ray Shero was fired in Jan. 2020.
The Devils have made the playoffs in two of six seasons with Fitzgerald at the helm. They were eliminated in the second round by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2022-23 and again by the Hurricanes in the first round of the 2024-25 postseason.
“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.
“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. 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. I look forward to the next step in my hockey career and will always look back fondly on my time with the Devils.”
