Devils Trade Palat to Islanders for Tsyplakov
On Tuesday, the New Jersey Devils completed a trade that sent Ondrej Palat to the New York Islanders. In return, the Islanders provided Maxim Tsyplakov along with two draft picks: a third-round pick for the 2026 NHL Draft and a sixth-round pick for the 2027 NHL Draft.
Palat’s Performance and Legacy
Ondrej Palat, a veteran forward, has recorded 10 points this season, which includes four goals and six assists over 51 games. At 34 years old, he has one year remaining on his five-year, $30 million contract, originally signed with the Devils on July 14, 2022. His $6 million average annual value reflects his significant role within the team.
Devils coach Sheldon Keefe expressed heartfelt sentiments following the trade, stating, “We’re going to miss ‘Pally.’ He’s a tremendous guy, great leader.” He acknowledged Palat’s value beyond statistics, emphasizing his work ethic and influence on teammates.
Palat’s Career Achievements
Selected as the 208th overall pick by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the seventh round of the 2011 NHL Draft, Palat boasts a remarkable record. Throughout his career with the Lightning and Devils, he has amassed 515 points, which include 181 goals and 334 assists in 876 regular-season games. Notably, he contributed 103 points in 155 Stanley Cup playoff matches, playing a crucial role in Tampa Bay’s consecutive championships in 2020 and 2021.
“It’s definitely not easy,” shared Devils captain Nico Hischier. “He was a great teammate and taught us a lot about winning.” Hischier’s remarks highlighted the impact Palat had on the organization and his teammates.
Tsyplakov’s Transition to the Devils
Maxim Tsyplakov steps into this trade having registered two points, with one goal and one assist in 27 games this season. The 27-year-old forward, who went undrafted, signed with the New York Islanders on May 16, 2024. His rookie season was notably successful, as he scored 35 points with 10 goals and 25 assists in 77 games. Following that performance, the Islanders secured him with a two-year contract on July 25, though his playing time has decreased this season.
Current Standings and Team Dynamics
This trade marks the second move for the Islanders in as many days. They acquired defenseman Carson Soucy from the New York Rangers for a third-round pick in the 2026 draft. Currently, the Islanders hold a record of 28-19-5, placing them third in the Metropolitan Division.
Meanwhile, the Devils, with a record of 27-24-2, find themselves sixth in the same division. They are nine points behind the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins, who occupy the two wild card spots in the Eastern Conference.
This trade is poised to influence both teams as they navigate their respective paths toward the postseason, highlighting the ongoing changes within the NHL landscape.
