Overview
- New Jersey made Hamilton a healthy scratch for Sunday’s game against the Jets after Johnathan Kovacevic’s return and Simon Nemec’s reinstatement left him the odd man out on the right side, according to coach Sheldon Keefe and GM Tom Fitzgerald.
- Agent J.P. Barry said the move was business-driven rather than performance-based and indicated Hamilton would consider destinations beyond his 10-team list to facilitate a mutually acceptable trade.
- Multiple outlets report Hamilton blocked a proposed summer trade to the San Jose Sharks using his trade protection, with further reporting noting hard feelings between the player and Devils management.
- Hamilton carries a $9 million AAV through 2027-28 with a modified no-trade clause and has five goals and 10 points in 40 games this season, factors that complicate his market despite his right-shot, puck-moving profile.
- Keefe plans to put Hamilton back in the lineup Monday against the Wild, while trade discussions are expected to intensify ahead of the March 6 deadline.