New Jersey Devils: Timo Meier Doesn’t Deserve The Hate He Receives
The New Jersey Devils won a huge game on Saturday night, beating the Buffalo Sabres 7-2. One player not on the ice has been hearing it from the fanbase despite not actually playing games for over a week.
Timo Meier missed his fourth game in a row on Saturday night, a game in which the New Jersey Devils won 7-2 against the Buffalo Sabres. We’re not sure about his injury, but he did test out skating earlier on Saturday, which is a good sign that he’s close to a return. However, a weird narrative is going around while he’s been out.
Timo Meier is the cancer. Ever since the trade man
— street hockey hasek (@vanleygoodtakes) November 25, 2023
This was one of many replies to tweets talking about anything Devils related that took unnecessary shots at Timo Meier. The high-scoring winger has been out and the narrative on him turned. People act like he’s the problem with his team somehow. It’s just strange.
Of course, this is always a possibility when an “outsider” signs such a large contract. Meier signed an eight-year, $70.4 million deal. He was coming off a 40-goal season, and his physical presence feels like the perfect compliment to Jack Hughes’ skillset. He doesn’t mind throwing his body, but he’s also a finisher to the top degree.
Prior to his injury, Meier was on the ice for 56% of the high-danger chances on the ice but only 33% of the goals at 5v5. He was getting better as the season progressed, with three goals in the three games. After he was held pointless in the first three games, Meier has 11 points in 11 games. That’s exactly what should be expected.
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If Meier returns and plays like he did prior to his injury, which was reportedly minor, then he’ll be a welcomed addition to the lineup. Anyone calling this acquisition a mistake is insane. It’s not a coherent argument. Meier not only is too early in his tenure, but he’s been good and is actually what the lineup needs.