Devils Forward Timo Meier Takes Family Leave

The New Jersey Devils announced Thursday that forward Timo Meier is taking a temporary leave of absence to address a family health matter, leaving the team without one of its top performers during a challenging stretch.

The club provided no further details on the situation or a timeline for Meier's return, emphasizing support for the player and his family. "The entire organization supports Timo and his family and appreciates everyone respecting their privacy at this time," the Devils said in a statement released on social media.

Meier, a 29-year-old right winger from Switzerland, has been a key contributor this season, recording 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 points in 30 games. He leads the Devils in goals and ranks third on the team in overall scoring. His production has been especially vital amid injuries to other stars. Since center Jack Hughes underwent surgery for a finger injury sustained in mid-November, Meier has tallied six goals and three assists, helping to fill the void left by the team's top playmaker.

The Devils acquired Meier from the San Jose Sharks ahead of the 2023 trade deadline, where he had spent the first eight years of his NHL career after being drafted...