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Bad News for the Devils' Defenseman Who Injured Connor Bedard


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Julien Trekker
January 19, 2024  (12:42)
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New Jersey Devils defenseman Brendan Smith after hitting Chicago Blackhawks rookie Connor Bedard and injuring him.
Photo credit: Victoria News

Connor Bedard was on track to have an incredible rookie season. However, his season took a turn when he suffered a fractured jaw earlier this month, forcing him to miss 6-8 weeks.

Now, in what some could call a strike back from karma, Brendan Smith, the Devils' defenseman who injured Bedard, now finds himself on Injured Reserve.

Devils Place Smith on Injured Reserve

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In a game against the Boston Bruins, Smith sprained his knee and was placed on IR.
To replace him, the Devils called up Santeri Hatakka from the AHL.

Devils Struggling in Playoff Race

The Devils have had to deal with a lot of challenges this season. After a breakout season, they haven't been able to maintain the same level this year. Injuries to key players like Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, as well as the goalies' struggles, have caused the team to fall out of a playoff spot. They now hold 7th place in the Metro division.
However, the season isn't over yet, and there is some good news from the goalie unit. Rookie Nico Daws has shown promise this year. In only six games, he has a 2.71 GAA and a .916 SV%.
Nico Daws is worth 2.5 Goals Above Average according to Evolving-Wild's numbers. That's half a goal per game better than an average goalie.

He's played 5 games. There are only 7 Devils skaters that are worth more over the season.
The Devils will surely hope to get back on track and push for a playoff spot.

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