The Toronto Maple Leafs are among teams expressing interest in New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton following his recent healthy scratch and placement on the trade block. The 32-year-old, born in Toronto, could provide a boost to the Leafs' defense amid Chris Tanev's injury, though his $9 million cap hit complicates any potential deal. Reports indicate the Devils aim to resolve the situation before the Olympic break, with multiple suitors in the mix.
Reports emerged on January 14, 2026, linking the Toronto Maple Leafs to New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton after he was healthy scratched in a game against the Winnipeg Jets. Hamilton, a 32-year-old with two and a half years left on his $9 million annual contract, has struggled this season, recording just 12 points in 41 games. His agent has indicated a desire for a trade, and the Devils, who have lost eight of their last 11 games and sit sixth in the Metropolitan Division, appear eager to move him to avoid distractions.
Jimmy Murphy of RG Media reported that the Leafs, along with the Anaheim Ducks, Vegas Golden Knights, Detroit Red Wings, and Utah Mammoth, have shown interest. A source told Murphy: "I had heard the Leafs and Mammoth were both on his ten-team no-trade clause and the Devils had talks with them before, but that won’t matter anymore." The source added: "Both teams are still in the playoff hunt, and he would immediately be part of the top four with all five teams. Besides the Leafs and Knights, look at the cap space the other teams have."
For the surging Leafs, who have won eight of their last 11 to return to playoff contention, Hamilton represents a potential replacement for the injured Chris Tanev, whose $4.5 million cap hit could be placed on long-term injured reserve to create space. TSN's Pierre LeBrun noted the financial hurdles: "With the Leafs, I think there’s no question they’re not taking him at $9 million a year, the Devils would have to retain." LeBrun also mentioned the Devils' need to shed salary, possibly by trading forward Ondrej Palat, and linked Hamilton to the Carolina Hurricanes as another suitor.
Trade packages could involve Leafs players like Calle Jarnkrok, Mattias Maccelli, or Max Domi, alongside prospects, though the Devils may prioritize immediate help. Hamilton previously rejected a trade to the San Jose Sharks, and no deal seems imminent ahead of the March 6 deadline. His familiarity with Leafs GM Brad Treliving and Toronto roots add appeal, but cap constraints for both teams remain the biggest obstacle.
