NHL Trade Rumors: Devils' Dougie Hamilton Linked To Two More Teams

Tuesday, July 15, 2025 , ,
New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton reacts during 2025 game.

The New Jersey Devils are facing a roster crunch, and Dougie Hamilton’s name continues to swirl in trade speculation. 

With limited cap space and a surplus of right-handed defensemen, moving Hamilton could free up flexibility for GM Tom Fitzgerald to retool the roster. According to Adam Gretz of Bleacher Report, two teams, the Columbus Blue Jackets and San Jose Sharks, are particularly intriguing fits for Hamilton.

Columbus and San Jose both need talent, and have the space

Columbus is flush with cap room but light on defensive stability. After re-signing Ivan Provorov, the Blue Jackets still have a shaky blue line and haven’t made the big splash many expected. Hamilton, despite injury concerns and a $9 million cap hit, could elevate their defense instantly. 

Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks, armed with over $19 million in cap space, are looking to build around Macklin Celebrini and avoid wasting his early development years. Acquiring a proven top-pair defender like Hamilton would inject leadership and skill into a young group, and they have the draft capital to make it happen.

Hamilton's value remains high despite challenges

While Hamilton is coming off an injury-marred season, his reputation as a strong right-shot defenseman still gives him value on the market. A trade could require a first-round pick and a solid prospect, though his 10-team no-trade list could make things complicated. 

The Devils are unlikely to deal him for a mid-round pick, but retaining a small portion of his salary might spark serious talks with a team like Columbus or San Jose.

Photo Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

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