Devils' Bjugstad and Kovacevic Injury Updates
The New Jersey Devils started on-ice training sessions on September 17th, but Nick Bjugstad and Johnathan Kovacevic were absent. Bjugstad will miss camp entirely, while Kovacevic will be a limited participant as he recovers from surgery.
Bjugstad had surgery last week to repair a torn left pectoral muscle. The injury happened during offseason training earlier this month. Recovery is expected to take four to six months.
Last season, Bjugstad played 26 games for the Devils after joining from the St. Louis Blues in February. He recorded two assists, 23 shots, and averaged 10 minutes of ice time per game, mostly on the fourth line. He is in the final year of his $3.5 million contract.
Kovacevic underwent minor surgery on his right knee in the offseason. He missed the first half of the 2025-26 season due to a torn ACL. While not present at practice, he will participate as his rehabilitation progresses.
Last season, Kovacevic played only 34 games, with eight assists and averaging 17:52 of ice time per game. Once healthy, he is expected to be a key veteran on the Devils' defense. He has four years remaining on his contract extension signed last March, with a $4 million cap hit.
With Bjugstad out to start the season, the team is looking for a fourth-line replacement. Amadeus Lombardi, acquired from the Detroit Red Wings before the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, is a potential candidate. Alternatively, Jesper Boqvist could center the fourth line, with other line adjustments following.
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