New Jersey Devils forward Timo Meier has taken a personal leave of absence to address a family health matter. The organization is providing full support while requesting privacy for Meier and his family.
The New Jersey Devils announced on Thursday that forward Timo Meier is stepping away from the team temporarily to tend to a family health issue. Meier, who is third on the team with 23 points (11 goals, 12 assists) in 30 games this season, will be absent for an undetermined period.
"Devils' forward Timo Meier has taken a personal leave of absence from the team as he tends to a family health matter," the team stated. "The entire organization supports Timo and his family and appreciates everyone respecting their privacy at this time."
Team captain Nico Hischier emphasized the group's unity in response to the news. "We got to stick together. We're one big family here," Hischier said. "Obviously, we're all thinking about Timo and hope for the best, but at the end of the day, we also have to play a hockey game here, and I know everybody would love to be in the lineup, and there's other guys out of the lineup. But we're big family here and we play for each other and stick together and help each other out however we can."
Meier's absence adds to the Devils' challenges, but the team is focused on supporting him while continuing their season. No further details on the duration of the leave were provided.
