The New Jersey Devils have been trying a few different lineups since they added Cody Glass and Daniel Sprong at the NHL Trade Deadline. So far, they were able to give Paul Cotter a night off, and that really helped him as he scored in his next game back. Sometimes, taking a night out of the lineup helps a player focus and see the game from a different angle. It allows them to see why they've been struggling and how they can take advantage of open ice.
Erik Haula has needed a reset for weeks. The center is having his worst season as a pro, finally scoring his first goal since November this week. He hasn't contributed offensively, and the skills he does bring to the table (blocking shots and winning faceoffs) haven't happened either.
When the Devils take the ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday, Haula will be in the owner's box. Head coach Sheldon Keefe has said he wants to try different lineups with the new players in the locker room, but it's hard to think that Haula's benching is anything but performance-based.
Here's how the #NJDevils lined up at practice today. It looks like Erik Haula could be out vs PIT along with Dowling.
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) March 14, 2025
Notably, Keefe said yesterday we'd likely see guys coming in and out, not solely based on performance, given they have extra bodies and want everyone involved. pic.twitter.com/uTcxWSU6Uw
Sprong, who has been out for the past two games after a decent debut for the Devils, will draw back into the lineup for Haula. He brings a really impressive offensive ability that can keep opponents guessing. Haula's been a one-trick pony this season, but we've seen him add offense in the past. Hopefully, spending a night away from the game will only help.
Haula still should be an important piece of this roster. He's playing for his seventh franchise, and it appeared like he finally found a home in New Jersey. His mindset was right, and he fit what they needed in 2022-23. He was a big part of why the Devils had that record-setting season and beat the New York Rangers in the playoffs.
Even last season, Haula was perfectly fine. He had 16 goals in 76 games. This year, he's on pace for less than 10. While there is an injury that impacts that, he is still averaging what amounts to nine goals over an 82-game season. It's just an unacceptable output for any player with his role.
Erik Haula's time away from the lineup should only help him prove his worth
Haula is likely fighting for his job right now. The Devils are likely going to make the playoffs thanks to this current three-game win streak. Haula has a chance to prove his worth more than he has all season. A reset will absolutely help him get back on track, but it's the only one he should get. The Devils have to start assembling their playoff lineup, and Haula hasn't earned a spot in the postseason as of now.
If Haula doesn't make the playoff lineup, we'd have trouble believing he would be wearing red and black on Opening Night 2025. The Devils need to clear up some money this offseason, and Haula has been a target for analysts as an easy way to do it, whether through trade or buyout.
However, he can avoid that possibility with a big run to end the season. If he's impactful in the playoffs, especially against the Carolina Hurricanes, a Devils' rival that Haula is known to hate, he could earn a spot on next year's team. This benching could be the turnaround he needs. Or, it could show Keefe the lineup he should be using moving forward.