Devils Notebook: Hischier moved to Injured Reserve, Miller Activated

Prior to the New Jersey Devils’ 6-3 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, the Devils activated defenseman Colin Miller off the injured reserve. In a corresponding move, they placed captain Nico Hischier on the IR.

Miller has yet to play a regular-season game with the Devils. The veteran defenseman sustained an injury during practice in which he fell into the end-boards. On Tuesday, Miller returned to practice and rotated in as an extra. The Devils traveled on Wednesday from Winnipeg to Pittsburgh, therefore, no morning skate was held. Don’t be surprised to see Miller jump into the blue-line mix and potentially play as soon as this weekend against the New York Rangers if he doesn’t draw in against Pittsburgh.

In order to make room for the Devils defenseman, New Jersey moved Hischier to the injured reserve retroactive to October 27th. Hischier has been out with an “upper-body injury,” which is suspected to be a concussion. The Devils captain suffered the injury against the Buffalo Sabres in New Jersey’s 5-4 victory over the Buffalo Sabres last month. Connor Clifton, who elbowed Hischier in the tilt, served a two-game suspension for the illegal check to the head. As a result, Clifton forfeited $34,722.22. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

Head coach Lindy Ruff disclosed good news this week, stating that Jack Hughes’ return is approaching sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, Hischier’s outlook has not been as positive as the team continues to evaluate him “day by day.” It wouldn’t be a shock to see the Devils hold their captain out until after American Thanksgiving, especially if/when Hughes is back in the lineup.

The Devils play six more games in the month of November. Things could certainly change, as they did quickly for Hughes. However, it doesn’t appear Hischier will be available until at least December.