Devils' Winger Signs Multi-Year Contract In Switzerland
The 2024-25 season wasn't always easy for veteran winger Tomas Tatar.
In his first stint with the New Jersey Devils, he found success on the team's top line, playing with Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer. He potted 20 goals and 48 points and was an asset to the Devils.
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His second stint was a bit more challenging.
Under head coach Sheldon Keefe, Tatar spent the majority of the season in the bottom six and found himself scratched at certain points.
"(It was) tough," he said during his exit interview. "Definitely played a different role than I am used to. The role was not to be productive but to help the team gain momentum. So, something very new for me."
Appearing in 74 games, Tatar scored seven goals and collected 17 points.
"It was challenging, for sure, but for this group, I was willing to do no problem," Tatar said of embracing his new role. "Obviously, I have lots of friends, and I do really like it here. That is why I came back to try to help the team."
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Understanding that Tatar, 34, was set to be an unrestricted free agent, many were not expecting him to return to New Jersey. On Tuesday, his future was confirmed as he has signed a two-year contract in Switzerland with EV Zug, the National League club announced on Tuesday.
"With his enormous experience from almost 1000 NHL games and his game intelligence, he is an important reinforcement for us at center," said Zug GM Reto Kläy. "In recent years, Tomáš has regularly played on the wing. With us, he will be used as a center."
The veteran has appeared in 927 NHL games, playing for the Detroit Red Wings, Vegas Golden Knights, Montreal Canadiens, Devils, Colorado Avalanche, and Seattle Kraken.
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The Hockey News wishes Tatar and his family all the best in Switzerland.
Make sure you bookmark THN's New Jersey Devils site for THN's latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
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