Devils Send Ondrej Palat and Picks to Islanders for Maxim Tsyplakov in Major Metro Division Swap

The New Jersey Devils made a bold move Tuesday night, sending veteran forward Ondrej Palat, a 2026 third-round pick, and a 2027 sixth-round pick to the division rival New York Islanders in exchange for 27-year-old forward Maxim Tsyplakov. The trade, confirmed Tuesday, marks a significant roster shift for both teams as they eye playoff positioning in the competitive Metropolitan Division.

Palat, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the Islanders, including a history of postseason success and leadership presence. The Czech winger was a key contributor during his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning, helping the team to multiple deep playoff runs before joining New Jersey. His veteran status could provide a steadying influence for the Islanders’ forward group as they seek to solidify their playoff hopes.

On the other side of the deal, Tsyplakov, 27, represents an infusion of youth and potential for the Devils. While not yet established as a marquee name in the NHL, Tsyplakov has shown flashes of scoring ability and versatility, attributes that the Devils’ front office appears eager to leverage as they look to build around their younger core. The move signals a shift toward a faster, more dynamic roster for New Jersey, while also freeing up cap space previously allocated to Palat.

• Devils trade: Ondrej Palat (LW, age 34), 2026 third-round pick, 2027 sixth-round pick
• Islanders trade: Maxim Tsyplakov (F, age 27)

The trade also carries strategic implications given the divisional rivalry between the Devils and Islanders. Sending an established veteran within the Metropolitan Division is a calculated risk for New Jersey, but acquiring Tsyplakov’s potential and adding future draft flexibility may outweigh the short-term boost Palat could provide to the Islanders.

As the trade deadline approaches, both clubs are signaling clear intentions: the Islanders, aiming for an immediate playoff push with Palat’s playoff pedigree, and the Devils, banking on a younger, evolving roster with Tsyplakov and additional draft options. With the Metropolitan Division standings tightly contested, this move could have ripple effects well into the postseason race.