Nosek provides insurance, depth to Devils

The veteran pivot won't contribute much offensively but brings value in the way of even-strength defense, penalty killing, and faceoffs.

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The New Jersey Devils did some bargain bin shopping on Wednesday, signing Tomas Nosek to a one-year deal worth $1 million.

Nosek, 30, is a 6’2’ left-shot center who can also play some left wing. He is not overly physical but is effective at leaning on opponents and using his big frame to win puck battles.

He has developed into a big time faceoff specialist over the years. Nosek won 59% of his draws last season and sits at 54.7% for his career. He has been a full time NHLer for six years and never won less than 50% of his draws.

Faceoffs are overrated as a whole but there is plenty of situational value in having dominant players in that aspect. Nosek certainly classifies as such. It’s always a good thing to have options and Nosek gives the Devils another good one.