The Utah Mammoth have entered the mix of teams showing interest in New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton, according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. Hamilton’s situation is complicated by his full no-movement clause and a 10-team trade list, which previously blocked a potential trade to the San Jose Sharks last summer. Despite his agent’s efforts to facilitate a move and Hamilton’s openness to explore options beyond his preferred destinations, his trade market remains sluggish.
Trade Market and Team Considerations Surrounding Hamilton
Pagnotta reports that the Toronto Maple Leafs displayed some interest, but their recent performance downturn likely removed them from serious talks, given Hamilton’s significant $9 million cap hit. San Jose still holds a degree of interest, but it’s uncertain whether Hamilton has reconsidered joining the Sharks. Although Hamilton’s contract carries a hefty initial cost, it has only two seasons remaining and he will become a free agent in 2028. This contract framework may deter many contenders from pursuing him, especially if the Devils are unwilling to retain salary.
Utah’s situation contrasts with many playoff hopefuls, as the team has substantial cap space available, anticipates salary relief this summer, and faces no major restricted free agent negotiations while Hamilton’s deal is active. This makes the Mammoth a natural potential landing spot for the defender.
Impact of Injuries and On-Ice Performance on Trade Discussions
Trade talks involving Hamilton reportedly slowed last month after fellow New Jersey right defenseman Luke Hughes suffered a shoulder dislocation. With the Devils no longer in playoff contention and Hughes nearing a return, the team is expected to reengage in trade conversations. During Hughes’ absence, Hamilton reclaimed his role as the Devils’ top power-play quarterback, registering a 2-goal, 5-assist performance over his last 10 games. Despite this, his 22 points in 54 games remain on pace for his lowest offensive output in more than a decade.
Concerns Over Hamilton’s Declining Offensive Production
The decline in offensive production at age 30 is troubling, particularly because Hamilton’s offensive skill set has been his hallmark. From 2014 to 2025, he averaged 16 goals and 52 points per 82 games and ranked within the top 10 for the Norris Trophy four times. It has been three years since he received any award considerations, with his performance gradually dipping following a left pectoral muscle tear that limited him to 20 games in the 2023-24 season.
How Hamilton Could Benefit Utah’s Playoff Push
For a Utah Mammoth team seeking to improve its depth scoring and struggling with a bottom-tier power play, Hamilton’s experience as an established power-play one (PP1) specialist makes him an attractive fit. Concerns about his defensive abilities are partially alleviated by head coach Andre Tourigny’s system, which has consistently ensured possession control since the franchise’s inception last season, with the Mammoth controlling over 53% of shot attempts and scoring chances at 5-on-5 play in the current season.
Trade Timing and Devils’ Motivations Amid Playoff Absence
The cost to acquire Hamilton may be lower now depending on the Devils’ urgency to shed his considerable salary. Earlier in the season, with New Jersey still within playoff range and seeking greater cap flexibility to add players, they may have demanded more in return. However, the team’s recent five-game losing streak and being 13 points out of a playoff spot has likely shifted priorities, making a swift trade to reduce salary cap commitments more pressing.
“his agent is trying to help facilitate a move” – David Pagnotta, NHL Insider
“open to exploring options outside of his preferred list,” – David Pagnotta, NHL Insider
