The New Jersey Devils certainly lack center depth this season. Amid injuries, it’s even more apparent. However, ahead of their tilt with the Detroit Red Wings on Monday, they received some positive news on the injury front.
Cody Glass stepped on the ice Monday morning and took his usual spot on the Devils’ third-line between Evgenii Dadonov and Connor Brown during pregame skate.
The Devils confirmed he’ll return to the lineup.
He displaced Juho Lammikko, who skated among the defenseman as an extra. It’s a huge development for the Devils, as Glass strengthens the depth down the middle, and was, in fact, playing well before he became injured.
Glass last suited up against the Chicago Blackhawks on November 12th, their first game on a five-game road trip. He missed the next four games after slamming into the end-boards and suffering an upper-body injury.
With both Glass and Jack Hughes injured, the center depth thinned quickly. Glass’ return makes the Devils much stronger down the middle with his elite defensive prowess. He also appeared to be showing a touch of improved offense with three goals in 10 games, but had also provided an increase in scoring chances.
Glass is returning from his second injury stint this season already. The Devils are certainly hoping he can remain healthy and stay in the lineup for the remainder of the season.
Heading into Monday night’s game, the Devils are atop the NHL with 113-man games lost. Among players who remain injured are Hughes, Zack MacEwan, Brett Pesce, and Johnathan Kovacevic.
The Devils are amid a three-game losing streak following a 2-3-0 road trip. However, the addition of Glass and returning to the Prudential Center could be just enough to give the Devils the boost they need to snap the skid and get back in the win column.
James is the New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on Sportsnaut and the PHWAs New … More about James Nichols