Devils Rumors: Is Tom Fitzgerald on the Hot Seat?

Tom Fitzgerald, the general manager of the New Jersey Devils, is in a precarious situation. Despite the team winning 10 of their last 14 games, the season has been generally disappointing. The Devils' playoff probabilities are slim, at 0.2%. Fans have called for his removal for months, but it appears Fitzgerald might remain in his role, though potentially with changes to his structure. Fitzgerald is looking to strengthen the team, even considering the possibility of trading some of his top defensemen to obtain an impact forward. Uncertainty surrounds his future, but the possibility of changes is palpable.

The team's current situation is precarious, despite showing potential when key players like Jack Hughes are healthy. There are rumors about whether the Devils' ownership might split Fitzgerald's roles, separating the functions of president of hockey operations and general manager. This could allow him to continue as general manager for one more season, but under constant evaluation. Speculation is high, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial for the team's future.

ESPN reporter Emily Kaplan suggested that Fitzgerald might remain, but could lose one of his titles. On 'The Flying V' podcast, Kaplan commented that the Devils might seek additional support for Fitzgerald or even make management changes. She also mentioned that Fitzgerald intends to use some of the star defensemen to get a forward that impacts the team. The speculation about management changes is high, but there are no concrete decisions yet about Fitzgerald's future.

The team's current situation is precarious, despite showing potential when key players like Jack Hughes are healthy.

Sportsnet insider Nick Kypreos has also commented on Fitzgerald's situation, mentioning the possibility of the Devils splitting the roles of president of hockey operations and general manager. Kypreos noted that this was the original intention when they offered the president's position to John Davidson in 2021, but Davidson declined the offer. The question is whether the Devils will look to hire someone specifically for the president of hockey operations position this summer, which could allow Fitzgerald to stay on as general manager for at least one more season. The feeling in New Jersey is that Fitzgerald is preparing for the worst, knowing he's on the hot seat.

The Devils' season has been inconsistent, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial for the team's future.

Despite the pressure, there is a chance that Fitzgerald and head coach Sheldon Keefe will get another opportunity in the 2026-27 season. With nine games remaining in the regular season, answers could come soon. The situation is complex, as the team has shown potential when key players like Jack Hughes are healthy. The fans expect changes, but the reality could be different. The uncertainty about the future of Fitzgerald and Keefe adds tension to the final weeks of the season.

The results of the final games will be decisive for the team's future and the continuity of its leaders.