Šimon Nemec Rumored to Want Trade from Devils, Sparks NHL Trade Buzz

Young New Jersey Devils defenseman Šimon Nemec is reportedly seeking a trade after growing frustrated with his role and lack of playing time. The 22-year-old, selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, has yet to fully break out at the NHL level and is now at the center of one of the biggest trade rumors heading into the 2026 offseason.

According to Slovak media reports shared by RonoAnalyst, Nemec has requested a trade and has not yet been offered a contract extension by the Devils. The report also notes that GM Sunny Mehta has not yet spoken with the player about his future. Nemec, who has played in 128 NHL games with a 4.6 average ice time, has seen inconsistent deployment and has spent time between the NHL and AHL over the past two seasons.

Nemec’s situation has drawn interest from several teams, including the San Jose Sharks, who are in the early stages of a rebuild. The Sharks are in need of a long-term right-shot defenseman and could consider moving their second-overall pick in the 2026 draft to land Nemec. That would mark a bold, aggressive move for a team looking to fast-track its rebuild.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, who hold the first-overall pick in the same draft, are another potential suitor. Despite being in a win-now mode, the Leafs are still looking to bolster their right-side defense. Nemec would fit the profile of a young, high-end defenseman with offensive upside. However, trading the first-overall pick for a player who has not yet established himself at the NHL level would be a calculated risk for Toronto.

Other teams like the Anaheim Ducks and Edmonton Oilers are also in the conversation. The Ducks, who improved significantly this season, could use Nemec’s offensive instincts to solidify their blue line. The Oilers, still adjusting after losing Philip Broberg, could use Nemec as a top-four complement to Evan Bouchard. Edmonton’s trade assets, including prospect Ike Howard, could also be on the table in any potential deal.

The Devils now face a major decision. Nemec is a rare commodity: a young, right-shot defenseman with top-four potential. If he wants out, New Jersey will have to weigh the value of keeping him versus the assets it could receive in return. With the trade market heating up, teams are already lining up to make a move.

The next step is clear: the Devils must confirm or deny the trade request. If the rumors are true, the next few weeks could set off a bidding war for one of the most intriguing young defensemen in the league.