The New Jersey Devils had some changes in their practice session. Colin Miller returned after being out sick, while Ondrej Palat rejoined the team after being absent since December 30. However, Michael McLeod and Cal Foote were both absent from practice. Later, it was revealed that McLeod and Foote had requested and been granted a leave of absence from the team. The team's lineups and pairings were adjusted accordingly, with Mercer replacing McLeod at center and Palat returning to the second line. Additionally, Palat was back on the second power play unit, with Bastian coming off the unit.
Michael McLeod & Cal Foote have each requested and been granted a leave of absence from the #NJDevils More⤵️ https://t.co/fTSafqXR21
Michael McLeod and Cal Foote have each been granted an indefinite leave of absence from the #NJDevils
The #NJDevils statement on McLeod and Foote. https://t.co/3cSFC93AVb
Ondrej Palat is back on the #NJDevils second PP unit today at practice. Bastian comes off of the PP. So units are: Luke, Hischier, Bratt, Meier and Toffoli Nemec, Palat, Mercer, Holtz and Haula
Here’s the #NJDevils lines and pairings from practice today. Biggest change is Mercer to center, in place of McLeod. Palat back on the 2nd line. Miller back from illness, takes the spot Foote has skated in last game. https://t.co/yIuq9D1kAU
Miller (illness) and Palat (lower-body) are at practice for #NJdevils C.Foote and McLeod are absent. Per @amandacstein
Michael McLeod and Cal Foote are not on the ice for #NJDevils practice.
John Marino just stepped on the ice for #NJDevils practice, started a bit late. So Michael McLeod and Cal Foote are the only two players missing today.
Michael McLeod, Cal Foote and John Marino are all absent from today's #NJDevils practice.
❗️Ondrej Palat has returned to #NJDevils practice! He just stepped onto the ice, rejoining his teammates for the first time since Dec. 30.
Colin Miller is back at #NJDevils practice. He missed the last game, out sick. He just stepped onto the ice.
No surprises on the ice. All players from morning skate accounted for. Miller (illness) remains out. #NJDevils