The Colorado Avalanche made a significant move before the NHL trade deadline by acquiring center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders. This trade involved sending defenseman Oliver Kylington, prospect Calum Ritchie, a 2026 first-round pick, and a conditional third-rounder in 2028 to the Islanders for Nelson and winger William Dufour. Nelson, a pending unrestricted free agent, was among the top players available.

In related transactions, the New Jersey Devils bolstered their defense by acquiring Brian Dumoulin from Anaheim, especially after losing top scorer Jack Hughes for the season. The Florida Panthers also added depth by bringing in center Nico Sturm from San Jose. Meanwhile, the New York Rangers acquired Carson Soucy from Vancouver, indicating a flurry of activity as teams positioned themselves for the playoff race.

The New Jersey Devils made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline by acquiring veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from Anaheim. This comes after a tough blow as leading scorer Jack Hughes will miss the remainder of the season due to shoulder surgery. The Devils also lost their top defenseman, Dougie Hamilton, to injury. By placing Hughes on long-term injured reserve, New Jersey can add around $10 million in player salaries before the deadline, which gives them flexibility to strengthen their roster further.

Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers acquired Nico Sturm from San Jose, enhancing their depth as they aim for another deep playoff run. Sturm, a reliable penalty killer, has seen considerable success on face-offs. The Panthers' focus is on solidifying their playoff position after winning the Stanley Cup last season. In a notable move, the Vegas Golden Knights re-signed winger Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers, as they look to bolster their lineup after last season's championship victory.

The New Jersey Devils have acquired veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and prospect Herman Traff. Dumoulin, in the final year of a $6.3 million contract, brings considerable experience, having won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins. With 16 points and 91 blocked shots this season, his addition is seen as a boost to the Devils’ blue line, especially with injuries to key defenders like Dougie Hamilton.

Coach Sheldon Keefe praised Dumoulin's reliability and consistent performance, highlighting his size and skill in puck movement. The Devils currently sit third in the Metropolitan Division, and the trade is expected to enhance their playoff push while addressing their need for a left-hand shot on defense. Meanwhile, the Ducks, six points behind the playoff line, continue their rebuild, trading away a seasoned player for future assets.

The New Jersey Devils acted swiftly as the NHL trade deadline approached, acquiring veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin from Anaheim amidst significant injuries to their roster, including leading scorer Jack Hughes, who is out for the season. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers bolstered their lineup by securing center Nico Sturm from San Jose, while the Vegas Golden Knights made a notable move by reacquiring Reilly Smith from the New York Rangers.

Dumoulin's addition comes at a critical time for the Devils, allowing them to utilize Hughes's long-term injured reserve status to bring in additional talent. For the Panthers, Sturm's strong faceoff performance and defensive skills add depth as they aim for another championship after their historic win last year. The Golden Knights' return of Smith, a key contributor in their 2023 Cup victory, signals their intent to strengthen their playoff chances.

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.