New Jersey Devils star defenseman Dougie Hamilton sustained a pectoral injury, leading to his placement on the injured reserve list. He tore his left pectoral muscle during Tuesday’s game against the New York Islanders and will undergo surgery, rendering him out indefinitely. The team did not specify a timeline for his return. This adds to the team’s recent injuries to Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier. Hamilton, a key player for the Devils, has contributed five goals and 11 assists in 20 games. His absence will create a significant gap, but the team is looking to fill the void with the help of up-and-coming talent.
New Jersey has called up Simon Nemec from the AHL’s Utica Comets, and he is set to make his NHL debut against the San Jose Sharks on Friday. Nemec was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft and has had successful seasons with the Comets, accumulating 12 goals and 34 points in 65 games for the 2022-23 season.
Additionally, forward Tomas Nosek, who has been out of play since Nov. 18, will also undergo surgery for a right foot injury, leading to an indefinite absence.
With the series of injuries impacting the New Jersey Devils, the team is focused on overcoming a slow start to the season. They are competing with several other teams in the Eastern Conference wild card race, and their upcoming game against the Sharks presents an opportunity to earn points despite the challenges posed by the injuries.
