NJ Devils Fire GM Ray Shero, Head In ‘New Direction’

NEWARK, NJ — The New Jersey Devils are officially in the market for a new general manager, the team says.

On Sunday, just before their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Devils announced they’re parting ways with Ray Shero, “effective immediately.” The team went on to win that night’s game 3-1.

It’s a rare occurrence for a NHL team to fire their general manager in mid-season, but not entirely out of the blue for the struggling Devils, who entered Sunday at 16-21-7. In four seasons under Shero, the Devils didn't make the postseason three times.

Tom Fitzgerald will take over the reins as interim general manager. He’ll get support from Devils legend and former star goalie, Martin Brodeur, who will serve as an adviser on hockey operations.

“Ray is a talented hockey executive and I am confident he will have great success in the future,” said Josh Harris, Devils managing partner and chairman.

“However, Ray and I are in agreement that the Devils need to move in a new direction and that this change is in the best interest of the team,” Harris said.

The Devils plan to launch a formal search for a new general manager “in the coming weeks and months,” Harris said Sunday, adding that Fitzgerald will be “very strongly” considered for the job.

“We are very optimistic about our future and have a lot of talent, both on and off the ice,” he said. “Our organization remains deeply committed to creating a sustainably winning franchise. Our fans deserve nothing but the best hockey. We thank them for their continued support as we work toward our goals.”

“I never thought I'd become a general manager like this,” Fitzgerald said. “I've worked hard, I've had a great mentor, I've been around other great people that have challenged myself and others. But this is what it is right now for myself. I'm excited about the challenge.”

“I'm sad for my friend, my mentor,” Fitzgerald said. “But right now, I just want to take it one day at a time.”

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