New Jersey Devils notes: On imminent reinforcements, a healthy dose of Vanecek, and 4th line Holtz

Some much needed help is on the way defensively. Plus, why we'll likely continue to see a lot of Vanecek (and Holtz on the 4th line).

Follow along on Twitter @ToddCordell | @InfernalAccess

Be sure to join the Discord channel to talk hockey, and everything else, with our writers and subscribers.

---

A few New Jersey Devils notes as they inch towards game action:

Help is on the way

The Devils have really struggled defensively of late. Over the past 10 games, they rank 30th in expected goals against, 30th in goals against, and 31st in high-danger chances against on a per 60 minute basis.

They have been putrid across the board, keeping company with rebuilding teams like the Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks; not ideal when pushing for a playoff spot.

Thankfully, reinforcements are coming in the near future. Jack Hughes’ return is imminent. Although he’s not a defensive force, he’ll help the Devils spend more time with the puck at the other end of the ice. That’ll make a difference.

Getting Tomas Nosek will provide a boost as well. He is a reliable defensive forward who can contribute to a penalty kill that – while improved of late – has struggled for much of the season.

Nick DeSimone is also ready to debut after being claimed off waivers from Calgary and, more importantly, Jonas Siegenthaler and Brendan Smith aren’t too far off from practicing (it generally doesn’t take long to get in the lineup after that).

Siegenthaler hasn’t played up to his usual standards this season but getting him healthy would still be a difference maker.

Of eight defensemen to play 300+ minutes for the Devils this season, Siegenthaler ranks 2nd in high-danger chances against/60, 3rd in goals against/60, and owns a 52 xGF%. That’s not half bad when you consider the level of competition he was facing on a nightly basis.

While he absolutely has more to give, even at his worst he’s an upgrade over a lot of the guys the Devils have been using.

Smith has gone through more than his share of 5v5 struggles but, oddly enough, he posted great numbers alongside Simon Nemec and is the best penalty killer on the team this season.

Getting him healthy – even if he’s to be used as a forward at 5v5 – would provide another option for Lindy Ruff.

The All-Star break really couldn’t have come at a better time for the injury-plagued Devils.

Expect more Vanecek