Devils Forward Nathan Bastian Faces Multi-Week Absence Due to Jaw Injury
Key Points
Nathan Bastian, a forward for the New Jersey Devils, is expected to miss multiple weeks due to a jaw injury sustained during practice on Monday, September 26.
The injury occurred when Bastian was struck in the face by a puck. He was taken to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment, and the Devils later announced that he had suffered a fractured jaw.
Bastian is a key member of the Devils' bottom-six forward group, and his absence will be a significant blow to the team. He is a physical presence who provides energy and grit, and he can also contribute offensively.
In response to Bastian's injury, the Devils recalled Andreas Johnsson from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Utica Comets. Johnsson is a former first-round pick who has played 200 games in the NHL. He is expected to make his Devils debut on Wednesday, September 28, when New Jersey hosts the Montreal Canadiens.
The Devils are hoping that Bastian will be able to return to action in time for the start of the regular season on October 12. However, the team is taking a cautious approach with his injury, and they do not want to rush him back before he is fully healed.