Saying it's been a rough season for the New Jersey Devils would be the understatement of the year. They have virtually no shot at making the playoffs, and it doesn't look like a big-time trade acquisition will help. One of the few positive moves Tom Fitzgerald made this year was unloading Ondrej Palat's $30 million contract to the New York Islanders.
Unlike the Devils, the Islanders have a good chance of making the playoffs and currently hold a top-three spot in the Metropolitan Division. Pucks and Pitchforks spoke with Palat a few weeks ago. He discussed the trade and how his veteran leadership can help the Islanders, given that he's a two-time Stanley Cup champion. He also confirmed that he waived his no-trade clause to be dealt to Long Island.
Question: Obviously, you're new to the Islanders. How did the whole thing break out? I know you were left out of the Devils' lineup (on January 27) and then traded not too long after. Walk me through what happened on that specific day.
Ondrej Palat: I knew something was going to happen, I just didn't know when. So, it just happened to be for a game. Kind of bad timing, but I was happy that it happened. And now I'm here with the Islanders and gonna be happier.
Q: You guys are in a playoff position, top-three in the Metro. You're a veteran player who's won a few Stanley Cups. How do you see yourself sliding into this position?
OP: Yeah, we're in a great position and a great team. Islanders are always a tough team to play against with a good structure. I'm excited to be here. Hopefully, we're gonna keep winning games and get into the playoffs."
Q: You spent a few years with the Devils, and I'm sure it didn't end the way you would have anticipated. But how would you reflect on your few seasons with the organization?
OP: The organization, the guys, it was unbelievable. I'm always going to miss them and the people around the team. I love my time there. We made the playoffs a couple of times. I'm going to miss those guys, but it didn't work out. I'm glad that I'm on a team that wanted me. I like that more.