New Jersey Devils scratched Dougie Hamilton, activating Johnathan Kovacevic as they reshape defense ahead of trade deadline.

New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton has been scratched for the game against the Winnipeg Jets, with the team opting to activate Johnathan Kovacevic from injured reserve. The move, described as a business decision by Hamilton’s agent, reflects roster adjustments amid the Devils’ recent struggles, including a 16–2 scoring deficit in their last three games. Hamilton, under a $9 million cap hit through 2027-28, remains open to trade despite his 10-team no-trade clause, as the team focuses on integrating younger players and reshaping its defense ahead of the March 6 trade deadline.