As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the New Jersey Devils made a significant move by acquiring veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks. The deal, which sends a second-round pick and the rights to prospect Herman Traff to Anaheim, sees the Ducks retaining 50% of Dumoulin’s salary. This acquisition comes in the wake of injuries to key players, including Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, who are both sidelined for the remainder of the season.

With Dumoulin’s NHL experience and ability to play significant minutes, the Devils expect him to bolster their defense amid a challenging season. General manager Tom Fitzgerald is also exploring options to fill the offensive void created by Hughes' injury. Notable forwards like Brock Nelson and Rickard Rakell are among those potentially available, as Fitzgerald looks to enhance the team's playoff prospects.