5 New Jersey Devils Players Fighting For Playoff Minutes

3. Miles Wood

Miles Wood has always been one of the most controversial players on the team. He missed most of last season with a hip injury, and many believe it was part of the reason for the season collapsing quickly (although the goaltending issue was much more to blame). Yet, this season, many are calling for him to see the owner’s box in one of these games.

Wood’s mixture of size, speed, and tenacity makes him a unique player. Ruff doesn’t want to lose that possibility in the lineup, but facts are facts. He’s been making mistakes that have cost the team on the scoreboard. That can’t happen in the playoffs. Wood has to find the best version of himself.

Wood actually left Tuesday’s game in the second period and never returned. We did not get an update on why he left or his future status, but the hip injury could always flare up. That’s an issue for him, and it might make this decision easier for the Devils. If he’s out for a while, the Devils will be forced to add Bastian back into the lineup.

The Devils are watching all its players compete for spots, and Ruff gave Wood an incredibly long leash. Right now, he has 24 points in 63 games. It’s not very impressive. He still has the ability to change a game at a moment’s notice. So, if he’s healthy, it’s likely he keeps his spot.