The Islanders aren’t the only local hockey team making massive changes with just a handful of games left in the season.
The Devils announced on Monday that the organization parted ways with general manager Tom Fitzgerald, with a disappointing season set to end next week.
Fitzgerald was fired with one more year left on his contract, according to multiple reports.
Fitzgerald had held the GM post in New Jersey since January 2020, when he was first named interim general manager. The Devils entered Monday sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference with a 40-34-3 record.
“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 statement on Monday that lauded Fitzgerald’s accomplishments while serving as general manager. “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.”
The Devils have appeared in the postseason just twice during Fitzgerald’s six seasons at the helm.
They reached the second round during the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs before being knocked out by the Hurricanes in five games after upsetting the Rangers in the first round.
New Jersey was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season when they were again eliminated by the Hurricanes.
“After talking with (co-owner) 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 in a statement. “I am incredibly appreciative to David, (co-owner) 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.”
