Devils sit Havlat to protect asset as deadline approaches
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Similar to the Jeff Petry scenario with the Edmonton Oilers, the New Jersey Devils will sit forward Martin Havlat from Saturday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Lamoriello confirms Havlat is out and Ryder is in. No changes on defense.
— Tom Gulitti (@TGfireandice) February 28, 2015
TSN's Bob McKenzie reports that Havlat is sitting out as a way for the Devils to protect their asset.
Havlat, a 33-year-old veteran, is a six-time 20-goal scorer and one-time 30-goal scorer who could add depth to a team for its playoff push.
The former first-round pick of the Ottawa Senators hasn't produced much this season for the Devils, recording 14 points in 38 games, and has been a consistent healthy scratch for the club.