Devils’ Dougie Hamilton set to return from broken jaw Thursday against Penguins
After missing nearly two months with a broken jaw, the New Jersey Devils will welcome back defenceman Dougie Hamilton to their starting line-up Thursday.
Speaking to reporters following Tuesday’s practice, coach Lindy Ruff confirmed his star blueliner is “ready to go” and will return from his 17-game absence against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Based on Tuesday’s line combinations, Hamilton is projected to be paired with teammate Jonas Siegenthaler on the club’s top defensive pairing.
Hamilton, 28, is in the first season of a seven-year, $63 million contract that was signed last off-season. The 6’6” defender’s deal carries a $9 million cap hit through 2027-28.
Through his first 30 games with New Jersey, the Toronto, Ontario native posted seven goals and 20 points. Additionally, the 2020-21 All-Star has also created 108 shots on goal, 47 blocks, 38 hits and eight takeaways while averaging 21:25 minutes of ice-time per night.
Amid a prolonged rebuild, the Devils currently find themselves positioned last in the Metropolitan Division with a miserable 17-28-5 record and 39 points.
New Jersey will return from its eight-day break – courtesy of the original Winter Olympic break – Thursday by visiting Pittsburgh, beginning at 7:00 pm ET.
-Thomas Hall
Twitter: @ThomasHall85