The Toronto Maple Leafs are targeting New Jersey Devils top-pairing blue liner Dougie Hamilton this offseason.
A report by James Murphy of RG Media cited an anonymous source who confirmed the Maple Leafs were among the teams calling the Devils regarding Hamilton’s availability.
According to the report, the NHL executive stated:
“Teams are calling on (Hamilton) now. I heard the Leafs looked into him. They’re looking into multiple options for their blue line, and a lot of them have offensive flair. That’s their strength, so there’s a common thread with their trade targets right now, and Hamilton fits the bill.”
Despite the interest in the 32-year-old Hamilton, the prevailing word around the league is that he’s not available. While the Devils have not made Hamilton available, that hasn’t stopped clubs from calling.
Besides the Maple Leafs, the Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, and Utah Mammoth have all inquired about Hamilton’s availability, who’s in the fifth year of a seven-year, $63 million deal.
But just because Hamilton isn’t currently available, it doesn’t mean he won’t ever be. As the anonymous source pointed out:
“Look, things as we know can change really fast in the NHL and with trade talks; all it takes is one call and voila! But there are a few things to consider here when it comes to Hamilton.”
In other words, the right offer could change everything, suddenly making the Devils change their minds about moving the former first-rounder from 2011.
Maple Leafs’ Offer for Hamilton Unclear for Now
The report did not get into any specifics about an offer the Maple Leafs could have made for Dougie Hamilton. It’s unknown what conversations could have been at this point. Moreover, it’s unclear if the Devils have named a price for Hamilton.
If the Devils were willing to contemplate an offer for Hamilton, it would have to be a sizeable one. The Devils would likely need to get a defenseman who could fill Hamilton’s roster spot. Additionally, the Devils could be looking for scoring help up front.
It’s also unlikely the Devils would ask for a package of draft picks or prospects as the club is looking to contend this upcoming season. So, the Devils could be looking for immediate help as opposed to numerous futures.
A Key Obstacle Could Hold up Trade Negotiations
Hamilton is heading into the fifth year of his current contract, per Spotrac. The deal comes with a modified, 10-team no-trade clause. As such, this key obstacle could get in the way of the Maple Leafs and Devils working out a deal.
It’s worth pointing out that this upcoming season, 2025-26, Hamilton’s contract shifted from a full no-movement clause to a modified no-trade clause. That situation makes it easier for the Devils to work out a trade.
However, if the Maple Leafs are on Hamilton’s no-trade list, he would have to approve the deal before it happens.
The likelihood of a blockbuster trade between the Maple Leafs and Devils occurring is slim. But as the anonymous source in RG Media’s report noted, things can change quickly. If the Leafs, or any other team, are willing to make New Jersey an offer it can’t refuse, Hamilton could be on the move this summer.
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