Meier Madness: Timo Meier’s Recent Highlights
Over the past few weeks, one phrase has been circulating among New Jersey Devils fans: “It’s Timo time.” Since his contract extension in 2023, right-winger Timo Meier has been a subject of doubt, with concerns about his injuries, excessive penalty minutes, and inconsistent effort on ice. However, recently, Meier has proven his worth, showcasing exceptional skill both offensively and defensively. To solidify the team’s chances in the playoffs, he must continue to ride the wave of “Meier Madness.”
Meier’s career as a Devil has certainly been challenging, to say the least. Though he officially became a Devil on February 26th, 2023, after they traded for him from the San Jose Sharks, he didn’t make his debut until March 5th, 2023, due to injury recovery. This delay proved to be just the beginning, as it wouldn’t be his only injury as a Devil. In 2024, Timo played through a double MCL injury and a late-season oblique injury, adding to concerns about his health.
On top of his physical setbacks, Meier found himself embroiled in controversy, particularly for penalties. Toward the end of the 2022-2023 regular season, following his arrival in New Jersey, Meier accumulated 18 penalty minutes over 21 games. In 2024, he cross-checked Nashville Predators forward Zachary L’Heurex, leading to a major penalty, game misconduct, and a fine of $45,833.33. Fans were left in disbelief when they learned that Meier had signed an eight-year contract, set to expire at the end of the 2030-31 season, when he will be 34 years old.
As the 2024-2025 playoff season approaches, Meier has become a more responsible player, generating offensive opportunities and scoring at a pace similar to his successful years with the Sharks. In the last ten games, Meier has scored five goals. During Monday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Meier gave the Devils a 1-0 lead with 6:25 left in the second period, followed by a goal by Jesper Bratt just 39 seconds later. If he continues at this pace, Meier could potentially reach a 30-goal regular season, a feat he accomplished three times while in San Jose.
In tonight’s game against the Calgary Flames, Meier led the team with the highest number of shots on goal—four—tied with captain Nico Hischier. While Meier continues to throw big hits, he’s showing he can contribute to every aspect of the game when he’s gliding on the ice. Early in the first period, Meier delivered a massive hit on Joel Hanley, sending a clear message that he’s ready to bring the physicality for the playoffs, even though it resulted in a boarding penalty. By harnessing his defensive power, he can become a true all-around threat, reminding fans of why his contract is such a valuable asset to the team.
With just 16 games left in the regular season, Timo Meier has an opportunity to make a dent in the speculations surrounding his capabilities. This final stretch has begun to reveal his full potential. With regained health and renewed determination, he has proven his value to the team as the playoffs loom closer. Though March is coming to a close, “Meier Madness” is just getting started.
