The NJ Devils currently sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, having accumulated 76 points from 66 games, which includes 35 wins, 25 losses, and 6 overtime losses. At this moment, this is sufficient for them to secure a spot in the Stanley Cup playoffs. However, entering the playoffs and securing victories in those elimination rounds are entirely distinct challenges. Indeed, achieving that goal will require a formidable lineup. However, it appears that the future of the NJ Devils is vulnerable.

What is the reason for that? On X, the official profile of B/R Open Ice conveyed the following update: “Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald said Dougie Hamilton is out for the rest of the season, and possibly the playoffs, and Jonas Siegenthaler is out for the season, and likely the playoffs.” This situation appears to be a significant setback for the franchise that had the potential to strategize for a Stanley Cup pursuit. The reason?

Hamilton and Siegenthaler stand out as two of the top defensemen for the NJ Devils. Excluding them from the main roster essentially invites the opposing team’s strikes to relentlessly challenge the Devils’ goaltender in every upcoming game, starting with their face-off against the Edmonton Oilers. Hamilton and Siegenthaler have participated in 63 and 55 games, respectively, for the Devils, and their statistics clearly reflect their performance on the ice.

Initially, Siegenthaler suffered his lower-body injury during the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Hamilton faced an identical scenario during the game against the Dallas Stars. Did the Devils respond to this situation?

Certainly! Defenseman Brian Dumoulin, formerly of the Anaheim Ducks, was acquired by the Devils just before the NHL trade deadline. With a career marked by two Stanley Cup victories, he brings a wealth of experience to the roster. However, how did the fans respond to this update on the two-star defensemen?

A lot of frustrated NJ Devils fans

Frustration was palpable among the NJ Devils fans, with one expressing, “Devils can’t catch a damn break.” This supporter expresses worry for the franchise’s dedicated followers, asking, “Are Devils fans okay😭” A different supporter commented, “injuries are the worst.” At this moment, there is no definitive information regarding the timeline for the return of these defensemen to their team. Has Fitzgerald commented on their recent addition, Brian Dumoulin?

Not at this moment. What did the Devils trade for this defenseman? The team has exchanged unsigned draft choice Herman Traff along with a conditional second-round draft pick for 2025 to the Ducks, while also agreeing to retain 50% of Dumoulin’s contract for the rest of the season.

A fan voiced their frustration, saying, “Plagued by injuries. 😩 jack and dougie have the same injury schedule annually.” Another fan commented, “Ouch. Prayers up to Dougie Hamilton for a speedy recovery.”

The Devils are currently on a two-game winning streak and are eager to extend this momentum. Despite the absence of their top defensemen, they remain determined to secure their playoff position.