The Devils traded Ondrej Palat to the Islanders for draft picks and forward Maxim Tsyplakov, clearing cap space as they rebuild.

The New Jersey Devils traded veteran forward Ondrej Palat to the New York Islanders for forward Maxim Tsyplakov, a 2026 third-round pick, and a 2027 sixth-round pick. The move, finalized on January 28, 2026, cleared $6 million in cap space for the Devils as they shift toward rebuilding. Palat, 34, had 10 points in 51 games this season and was known for his leadership and two Stanley Cup wins with Tampa Bay. The Islanders, who also acquired defenseman Carson Soucy from the Rangers, took on Palat’s full $6 million cap hit to add experience. Tsyplakov, 27, has two points in 27 games this season after a strong rookie year. The trade marks a strategic pivot for both teams amid playoff races in the Metropolitan Division.