New Jersey Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer Announced Tom Fitzgerald Will Depart the Organization
The Devils are a pulling a traditional “out with the old and in with the new.” They have not been happy with their current direction and are looking to majorly improve things. On Monday, New Jersey Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer announced that Tom Fitzgerald will depart the organization.
As one can see, with this news regarding Tom, the late-season personnel changes are continuing across the NHL. Seems like it has been awhile since this much action has transpired. Nevertheless, the recent chopping block has included: Las Vegas Golden Knights relieving Bruce Cassidy of his duties as head coach; the Maple Leafs GM firing Brad Treliving as well as the dismissal of Islanders’ head coach Patrick Roy which led to the hiring of Peter DeBoer.
Nonetheless, Tom Fitzgerald had just one year left on his contract next season. However, New Jersey felt that this is a change that could wait no longer. But the organization maintains that both sides felt that Tom’s departure from the franchise would be for the best. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan reveals,
“It’s been stressed to me that NJ parting with Tom Fitzgerald was as amicable as it could be. No interim. Devils search for a new GM begins immediately.
Timing of it happening now definitely puts Fitzgerald in the mix for Nashville opening. We’ll see what develops.”
New Jersey Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer Announced Tom Fitzgerald Will Depart the Organization
The New Jersey Devils also released the following official statement regarding Fitzgerald’s firing:
“The Jersey Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer announced today that Tom Fitzgerald will depart the organization.
‘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.’
‘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.’”
Fitzgerald was named interim General Manager on January 12, 2020. Then, was promptly promoted to the full-time role of Executive Vice President/General Manager on July 9, 2020. He had served as President, Hockey Operations/General Manager since January 23, 2024.
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