Devils’ Timo Meier takes personal leave of absence

On Thursday, the New Jersey Devils announced that forward Timo Meier has taken a personal leave of absence. The 29-year-old is taking time away from the team to tend to a family health matter.

In a statement, the Devils said, “The entire organization supports Timo and his family and appreciates everyone respecting their privacy at this time.”

The Devils didn’t provide a timeline for his return.

Meier is in his third full season with the Devils. He was traded to the organization ahead of the trade deadline in February 2023 as part of a deal with the San Jose Sharks, where multiple players and draft picks were exchanged.

During his time with New Jersey, the Swiss winger has provided not only a veteran presence but also consistent scoring, helping the team qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in two of the past three seasons.

In his first two full seasons with the team, Meier has reached the 50-point mark, including 28 goals and 52 points in 2023-24. Last season, he notched 26 goals and 27 assists for 53 points in 80 games, helping New Jersey finish third in the Metropolitan Division. Ultimately, the team was eliminated by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the postseason. Meier notched four points in the five-game series.

The 10-year pro is off to another good start this year. In playing in each of New Jersey’s first 30 games, he leads the team with 11 goals, with his 23 points placing him third on the Devils behind captain Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt. Meier also has a plus/minus of -4 while averaging just under 19 minutes of ice time per game.

In 651 regular-season games, Meier has potted 228 goals and 230 assists for 458 points, with another 28 points in 51 playoff affairs.

The Devils (17-12-1) sit sixth in the Metropolitan Division, just outside of the last Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. They are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night.