The New Jersey Devils have made a significant move by signing general manager Tom Fitzgerald to a multiyear contract extension. Adding to his accomplishments, Fitzgerald has also been appointed as the president of hockey operations for the team. Since taking over as the interim GM in January 2020, Fitzgerald has successfully led the Devils to become one of the fastest-rising and most-improved teams in the NHL.
Fitzgerald’s expertise and strategic decision-making have played a crucial role in the team’s progress. Noteworthy among his achievements was overseeing the draft selections of promising young talent such as Luke Hughes, Dawson Mercer, and Simon Nemec, among others. These players have contributed to the team’s success and have been instrumental in driving the Devils to the playoffs and even advancing to the second round last season.
The New Jersey Devils organization acknowledges Fitzgerald’s contributions and recognizes the positive impact he has made on the team. In light of the team’s rebuilding process and unexpectedly early playoff success, both Fitzgerald and coach Lindy Ruff have been rewarded for their efforts. The team co-owner, David Blitzer, praised Fitzgerald for his hard work in building a dynamic and powerful team that the organization can be proud of. Blitzer also emphasized Fitzgerald’s dedication to revamping the roster through signings, trades, and draft picks, with a focus on long-term success.
Tom Fitzgerald’s career has been shaped by his aptitude for success. Prior to joining the Devils in 2015, Fitzgerald had already experienced triumph as he won the Stanley Cup while working alongside Ray Shero with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Fitzgerald’s role as the director of player development during the Penguins’ successful title run showcased his ability to nurture talent. Shero recognized Fitzgerald’s capabilities and promoted him to assistant general manager before eventually bringing him to the Devils.
Fitzgerald’s influence on the team extends beyond drafting and developing talent. He has also demonstrated an aggressive approach to acquisitions, as demonstrated by the trade for forward Timo Meier from the San Jose Sharks at the 2022 trade deadline. With a strong core in place and a roster built for long-term success, the New Jersey Devils are poised to be serious contenders in the coming years.
In light of his contract extension and appointment as president of hockey operations, Fitzgerald expressed his gratitude to the team’s co-owners, David Blitzer and Josh Harris, for their commitment to him and his family. He acknowledged the progress the organization has made and voiced his commitment to continue leading the New Jersey Devils towards consistent success and ultimately bringing the coveted Stanley Cup back to the loyal fans of New Jersey.
Tom Fitzgerald’s contract extension and expanded role as the president of hockey operations for the New Jersey Devils solidify his position as a key figure in the team’s ongoing success. With a young and talented roster in place, Fitzgerald’s leadership and strategic decision-making will undoubtedly continue to propel the Devils towards greatness in the seasons to come.
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