With just five games left in the 2026 regular season, the Devils are making a major change.

New Jersey announced Monday night that they have parted ways with president of hockey operations and general manager Tom Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald, 57, had been in the Devils front office since 2015. He started as an assistant GM and was named interim GM in January of 2020 before getting the full-time role of executive vice president and GM in July of 2020. Fitzgerald had held his most recent title since January of 2024.

The Devils are 40-34-3 and seven points back of the second Wild Card spot, making a Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance very unlikely.

Under Fitzgerald, the team made the playoffs in 2023, beating the Rangers in the first round before falling to the Carolina Hurricanes, and again last year (another exit at the hands of the Hurricanes).

Devils managing partner David Blitzer released the following statement on the decision:

"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. 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 also gave a statement:

"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."

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