New Jersey Devils Announce Key Forward Undergoes Surgery, No Timetable for Return

Palat has 3 goals in 6 games for New Jersey, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt. The 2x Stanley Cup champion has already stood out as a leader for this Devils group; the NHL's third-youngest team (CBJ and BUF). Before ever playing a game for NJ, he earned the rank of alternate captain, joining Jack Hughes and captain Nico Hischier as the Devils' formal leadership group.

During free agency, Palat signed a big-ticket deal with the Devils worth $30 million over five years. The Devils are playing decent hockey without Palat, but no question they want him back as soon as possible. This does give the Devils a chance at some LTIR relief, making Palat an end-of-season acquisition. Perhaps this allows NJ to bend the LTIR a little and make a midseason trade...