The New Jersey Devils have had some problems with their health situation for most of this season. Now, they are looking to get a little bit healthier as March approaches. Jonas Siegenthaler, who has been out since January 6th with a broken foot, is getting close to returning. He has been practicing with his teammates for a few days now and looks ready to return.
It could happen as early as Tuesday night when the Devils pay a visit to the District of Columbua to play the Washington Capitals. It would be a boost to a defensive unit that has been dealing with injuries all season long.
Jonas Siegenthaler said that if he’s called upon he feels ready to play.
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) February 19, 2024
Was a long six-week recovery from his broken foot but he’s feeling good now. #NJDevils
The New Jersey Devils will be getting Jonas Siegenthaler back in the lineup soon.
We know that Siegenthaler is ready to play. He wants to be out there helping his team succeed. However, the doctors and coaches must determine when he is ready. The doctors cleared him already, as evidenced by his normal practice sweater. Now, it is about making sure that he is ready for games.
In practice on Monday, he skated on the top pair with Simon Nemec. This could be a great duo for New Jersey if each of them plays to their top potential. Siegenthaler is more of a stay-at-home defenseman. So far this season, he has one goal and seven assists for eight points in 38 games played. Playing with a young two-way guy like Nemec could be perfect for Siegenthaler and his game.
These two should be able to hold the fort down with Luke Hughes, Colin Miller, Kevin Bahl, and Brenden Smith. Nolan Foote practiced as well (he has yet to play a game this season) along with Nick DeSimone, which could add some depth. This will have to do until Dougie Hamilton returns, which will be a long time.
With Nico Daws providing good goaltending behind them these days, it might be a bit easier for them to play a good strong game. If Siegenthaler can play more like he did in 2022-23 following his injury, New Jersey will be in great shape.
With the lineup as healthy as it's been since the preseason, good things could be coming for this team with the stretch run fast approaching. It is time to start racking up some wins with Siegenthaler back in the lineup.