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Meier's Resurgence Fuels Devils' Offense

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  Published in House and Home on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 0:20 GMT by National Hockey League
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Tyler Meier's Ascending Form: A Slow Start Giving Way to Impact

The early portion of the season saw winger Tyler Meier struggling to find his rhythm after signing a substantial four-year contract with the Devils. Expectations were high, and the initial returns were underwhelming. However, the past eight games have painted a markedly different picture. Meier has rediscovered his offensive touch, contributing four goals and three assists, and displays a confidence that was previously absent. This resurgence is not merely statistical; it's visibly impacting the team's dynamic.

Head coach Lindy Ruff has observed Meier's positive development firsthand. "He's getting better every game," Ruff commented. "He's using his size, he's playing with more speed, and he's creating more opportunities for himself and his linemates." This assessment highlights that Meier is not simply benefiting from favorable bounces, but is actively improving his overall game.

Crucially, Meier is now skating on a line with Jack Hughes and Ondrej Palat. The on-ice chemistry between these three players is undeniable, creating a potent offensive threat that opposing teams are forced to account for. Playing alongside two of the Devils' most gifted offensive talents is undoubtedly accelerating Meier's reintegration and allowing him to flourish. The trio's combined skill set - Hughes' playmaking, Palat's veteran savvy, and Meier's size and burgeoning confidence - is proving to be a dangerous combination.

A Prodigal Son Returns: Jiri Holik's Warm Welcome

The atmosphere at Prudential Center was particularly special on Wednesday night with the return of Jiri Holik, a beloved figure from the Devils' championship era. Holik, who played a pivotal role for the Devils from 1997 to 2001, was honored with a warm reception from both fans and former teammates. His presence served as a poignant reminder of the franchise's storied past.

"It was great to be back in Newark," Holik shared, visibly moved by the welcome. "I have so many great memories of my time with the Devils. It's a special place to me." Holik's impact extends beyond statistics; he was a key component of the Devils' 2000 Stanley Cup-winning team, embodying the team's commitment to defensive responsibility and relentless effort. His return served as a powerful symbol of the team's history and the enduring connection between the organization and its fans.

Jack Hughes: More Than Just a Playmaker

While Meier's resurgence and Holik's return generated headlines, the continued development of Jack Hughes remains a central storyline. Hughes is rapidly establishing himself as not only one of the league's premier offensive talents but also as a true leader, both on and off the ice. His playmaking ability is undeniably exceptional, but his impact extends far beyond simply accumulating assists. He dictates the tempo of the game, elevates the performance of his teammates, and consistently makes game-changing plays.

"He's the engine of our team," Ruff stated emphatically. "He controls the game and makes everyone around him better." This observation underscores Hughes' growing influence and importance to the Devils' long-term success. He's evolving into a complete player, embracing the responsibility of leadership and setting a standard for his peers.

Injury Updates: Navigating the Road to Recovery

The Devils are facing the typical challenges of an NHL season, with key players currently sidelined due to injury. Ondrej Palat, who has missed the last 17 games with a lower-body injury, is progressing well in his rehabilitation. He is currently skating independently and is anticipated to return to the lineup sometime in March. His return will provide a significant boost to the team's offensive depth and experience.

However, the situation with Nico Hischier is more concerning. Hischier suffered a concussion last week and is currently out indefinitely. The team is understandably cautious, prioritizing his health and well-being. "We're taking things day by day with Nico," Ruff explained. "His health is our top priority." Concussions are notoriously unpredictable, and the Devils are committed to ensuring Hischier receives the necessary time and care to fully recover before returning to the ice. The absence of both Palat and Hischier underscores the importance of depth and resilience as the Devils continue their pursuit of a playoff berth.