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NHL Rumors: 3 New Jersey Devils who won’t be on the roster after this offseason

By Marci Rubin

Nov 28, 2022; New York, New York, USA; New Jersey Devils center Yegor Sharangovich (17) celebrates his empty net goal with left wing Tomas Tatar (90) during the third period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2022; New York, New York, USA; New Jersey Devils center Yegor Sharangovich (17) celebrates his empty net goal with left wing Tomas Tatar (90) during the third period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 3, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils left wing Tomas Tatar (90) controls the puck against the Philadelphia Flyers in the third period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils left wing Tomas Tatar (90) controls the puck against the Philadelphia Flyers in the third period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports /

Devils who won’t be on the roster after this offseason: 3. Tomas Tatar

Given his strong regular season in 2022-23, it will be particularly disappointing if pending UFA Tomas Tatar doesn’t return next season, but that’s looking like the most likely scenario. It once seemed like an extension could be in the cards. After a poor showing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, his future with the Devils is on the rocks.

2022-23 was a bounce-back year for Tatar. During the regular season, he was able to find success playing in all different spots as the lineup was shuffled around. The winger posted 20 goals and 28 assists with a 41 +/-. Tatar was a big contributor in the offensive zone. His steady veteran presence on a young Devils team was also important.

Come playoff time, though, Tatar disappeared when the Devils needed him. He had one goal and no assists in 12 playoff games. Aside from a notable goal in Round 1 Game 7 against the New York Rangers, Tatar’s only other visible playoff moment was not a positive one. He was fined for high-sticking Sebastian Aho in retaliation for cross-checking in Round 2 Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Strangely, Tatar wasn’t present for interviews on the Devils’ exit interview day. Tatar was apparently there with the team for locker clean-out, but he didn’t realize he was supposed to stay to meet with the media. This is rather bizarre coming from a veteran. The rest of the team stayed to speak with the media. Tatar might have had an inkling that his days in New Jersey were ending.

Should the Devils find room for Tatar on their payroll, it wouldn’t be bad to have him back. They can count on the 32 year old’s veteran presence, and hopefully, he’d have a better playoff run next time around if given the chance. He might be able to get more money and a lengthier contract somewhere else, though. The Devils have a very talented group of top-six forwards, and Tatar isn’t meant for the bottom-six. They can do without him.

Don’t expect these three players to be back with the Devils next season.

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