Devils Acquire Dumoulin from Ducks Before Trade Deadline

NEWARK, N.J. — The New Jersey Devils bolstered their defensive lineup by acquiring defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday, a day before the NHL trade deadline. The deal marks a strategic move for the Devils, who are currently contending for a playoff spot but are facing significant injuries, including the season-ending loss of center Jack Hughes.

In exchange for Dumoulin, the Devils sent a 2025 second-round draft pick and forward prospect Herman Träff to the Ducks. Anaheim retained 50% of Dumoulin’s $3.15 million salary, allowing the Devils to manage their cap space effectively as they navigate the final games of the season.

“Brian was good for us both on and off the ice, and we wish him well in New Jersey,” Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said in a statement. “This wasn’t an easy decision for us. We do feel this allows more opportunity for our young defensemen, who have proven they can play and succeed at the NHL level.”

Dumoulin, 33, is in the final season of a two-year, $6.3 million contract originally signed with the Seattle Kraken in July 2023. This season, he has registered 16 points (two goals, 14 assists) and leads the Ducks with 91 blocked shots over 61 games.

“Obviously it’s been a lot of change, but it’s good to get here,” Dumoulin said during the Devils’ morning skate. “I want to try to play tonight and help this group. I know how fast [the Jets] are and they’re a hard team to play against. So I look forward to joining this group.”

Dumoulin’s experience is valuable for the Devils as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning; they currently rank third in the Metropolitan Division with 72 points.

<p“He's a veteran defenseman with experience in winning,” Devils coach Sheldon Keefe said. “He's reliable and consistent. He has size and skates well; he can move the puck.”

Selected in the second round of the 2009 NHL Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes, Dumoulin has played 687 regular-season games in his career, accumulating 171 points (24 goals, 144 assists) and an impressive playoff record of 25 points (four goals, 21 assists) in 81 postseason games with the Penguins and his most recent teams.

Träff, the prospect included in the deal, was New Jersey’s third-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. With a 6-foot-3 frame and a reputation as an intense forechecker, he has recorded seven points in 25 games for HV71 in the Swedish Hockey League while also participating in the U20 Junior World Championships.

“I think one of my biggest things is consistency,” Dumoulin stated, emphasizing the importance of reliability in his game. “I aim to deliver the same performance every night, focusing on defensive play and puck movement.”

As the trade deadline approaches, both teams will continue to assess their rosters. The Ducks are looking to develop their young talent, while the Devils aim to equip themselves for a strong playoff run despite the challenges posed by injuries.