Simon Nemec Clarifies Comments, Trade Rumors, Devils Future (+)

NEWARK—Earlier this winter, New Jersey Devils defenseman Simon Nemec was a hot button topic in NHL trade rumors. The rumors were a result of a report that suggested perhaps Nemec wanted to seek employment elsewhere. New Jersey Hockey Now caught up with the former second overall pick for clarity.

Nemec has been with the Devils since he was drafted in the summer of 2022. He spent his first season following the draft, playing 65 games for the Utica Comets in the American Hockey League. In his second pro season in North America, Nemec replaced Dougie Hamilton in the 2023-24 season as a result of New Jersey losing their No.1 defenseman for the entire season. Nemec went on to play 60 NHL games after playing his first 13 in the AHL.

And although Nemec made the initial 2024-25 Devils roster, he was reassigned to the Comets after nine games amid struggles at the NHL-level.

A report suggested Nemec was frustrated with the Devils organization, citing his remark, “I can’t remember any No. 2 draft pick that went to the farm for a third year.”

Nemec was further prompted if he wanted to be traded, which sent the hockey world into a buzz. The Devils defenseman clarified the comments on Wednesday.