Feb 4, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler (71) moves the puck up ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Jonas Siegenthaler Returns Early as Devils Face Must-Win Game 3

Devils get a defensive boost as Siegenthaler suits up post-surgery in Game 3 vs Hurricanes, aiming to spark a turnaround in the playoff series

The New Jersey Devils are calling on a familiar face for help in a desperate moment. Defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler, who hasn’t seen game action since early February, is expected to return ahead of schedule for tonight’s crucial Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes.

After undergoing lower-body surgery earlier this season, Siegenthaler only recently began practicing again. But with the Devils trailing 0-2 in the series and their blue line battered, head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed they’re likely inserting him into the lineup tonight, albeit in a limited role.

Siegenthaler skated on the third pairing this morning alongside rookie Simon Nemec. Though he won’t log his usual heavy minutes, the Devils hope his calm, stay-at-home style will bring some much-needed structure to a defense leaking chances.

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— x – New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) April 25, 2025

In his 55 games this season, the 26-year-old Swiss defender put up modest offensive numbers (2 goals, 7 assists) but did the dirty work well, blocking 92 shots, landing 75 hits, and finishing with a plus-nine rating while averaging nearly 20 minutes per game. His return could also help on the penalty kill, where he’s expected to see most of his action tonight.

The Devils’ defense has been under siege so far in the series. Despite stellar goaltending from Jacob Markström, who’s stopped nearly everything he’s been able to see, New Jersey has allowed 7 goals in two games and ranks last in the playoffs in 5-on-5 defensive metrics. They’re giving up nearly 37 shots per game, and the Hurricanes have made them pay.

Further compounding New Jersey’s issues, Brenden Dillon and Luke Hughes will remain out of the lineup, forcing Keefe to rely on his remaining veterans and a pair of young defenders to hold the line.

In a bit of relief, defenseman Brett Pesce, who missed the morning skate, will still suit up tonight, avoiding another potential setback. Game 3 at home is do-or-die territory for the Devils. With their season teetering, the return of Jonas Siegenthaler may not be a cure-all, but it’s a step in the right direction, and at this point, they’ll take every one they can get.

Image Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!