Sharks Seek Dougie Hamilton Trade to Boost Playoff Push

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The San Jose Sharks are reportedly making another push to acquire defenseman Dougie Hamilton from the New Jersey Devils before the 2026 NHL trade deadline. The Sharks previously attempted to trade for Hamilton last summer, but he exercised his no-trade clause to remain with the Devils. Now with New Jersey outside the playoff picture, the Sharks see an opportunity to land the top-pairing blueliner to bolster their own postseason chances in the wide-open Western Conference.

Why it matters

Acquiring Hamilton would provide the Sharks with a elite two-way defenseman to stabilize their blue line and complement young star forward Macklin Celebrini. Hamilton's ability to drive possession and contribute offensively could help the Sharks make a late playoff push in a competitive but vulnerable Western Conference.

The details

The Sharks previously tried to trade for Hamilton last offseason, but the defenseman used his no-trade clause to block the deal. Now with the Devils struggling to stay in the playoff race, Hamilton may be more open to a trade. San Jose has the draft picks, prospects, and salary cap space to potentially land Hamilton without mortgaging their long-term future.

• The Sharks attempted to trade for Dougie Hamilton during the 2025 offseason.
• Hamilton exercised his no-trade clause to remain with the Devils to start the 2025-26 season.

What’s next

The Sharks will need to negotiate a trade package with the Devils that satisfies both teams and convinces Dougie Hamilton to waive his no-trade clause to join San Jose before the 2026 NHL trade deadline.