Calgary Flames Acquire Šimon Nemec from New Jersey Devils

The New Jersey Devils have traded Slovak defenseman Šimon Nemec to the Calgary Flames, according to reports from tsn.com and other journalists. The move sends Nemec and forward Maxim Cypľakov to Calgary in exchange for defenseman Etienne Morina, a 2026 second-round draft pick, and conditional first-round picks in 2027 and 2028.

What were the terms of the Šimon Nemec trade?

The Calgary Flames acquired defenseman Šimon Nemec and forward Maxim Cypľakov as part of the deal, reports indicate. In return, the New Jersey Devils received 21-year-old defenseman Etienne Morina, who has not yet played in the NHL.

New Jersey also secured a second-round selection for the 2026 draft. Additionally, the Devils received conditional first-round picks for the 2027 and 2028 drafts, according to the reported terms.

Did You Know? In November 2025, Šimon Nemec recorded his first career NHL hat-trick during a game against Chicago.

Why was Šimon Nemec traded from New Jersey?

Nemec struggled to maintain a stable position in the lineup under head coach Sheldon Keefe, according to reports. Trade speculation surrounded the defenseman throughout the season, including during the March trade deadline when a move did not materialize.

Contract timing likely influenced the decision. Nemec’s entry-level contract expires in the summer of 2026, at which point he will become a restricted free agent.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that New Jersey is prioritizing long-term flexibility by acquiring multiple high-round picks and a young prospect. Calgary, conversely, is betting on Nemec’s ability to stabilize their blue line, leveraging his recent career-high production to bolster their defense.

How did Nemec perform during his time with the Devils?

Nemec spent three seasons in the NHL organization after being drafted in 2022. The 2025/2026 season marked the first time he spent the entire year with the Devils’ primary roster.

Simon Nemec Traded To Calgary Flames! w/ Steve Dangle | Instant Analysis

During that campaign, he set personal records with 68 games played, 11 goals, and 26 points. Across his total NHL career, Nemec has recorded 17 goals and 34 assists for 51 points in 159 games.

What happens next for Nemec in Calgary?

Nemec joins two other Slovak players on the Calgary roster, forwards Martin Pospíšil and Samuel Honzek. This marks the first time the defenseman has changed teams in the professional league.

His role in Calgary may depend on how he integrates into the system before his contract expires in 2026. The conditional nature of the first-round picks sent to New Jersey suggests that certain performance or team benchmarks could determine if those assets are finalized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did the New Jersey Devils receive in exchange for Šimon Nemec?
The Devils received defenseman Etienne Morina, a 2026 second-round pick, and conditional first-round picks in 2027 and 2028.

What were Šimon Nemec’s stats for the 2025/2026 season?
He played 68 games, scoring 11 goals and totaling 26 points.

Which Slovak teammates will Nemec play with in Calgary?
He will join forwards Martin Pospíšil and Samuel Honzek.

Do you think this trade provides more value to the New Jersey Devils’ future or the Calgary Flames’ current roster?