New Jersey Devils activate Johnathan Kovacevic from injured reserve

The New Jersey Devils have activated defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic from injured reserve. Kovacevic had been sidelined since the offseason following knee surgery, which limited his participation during training camp.

To accommodate Kovacevic on the active roster, the team returned Anton Silayev to the AHL Utica. Kovacevic, 29, is entering the second year of a five-year contract extension worth $4 million annually. After a career-high 17-point performance in the 2024-25 season, his production dipped last year to eight assists in 34 games due to injury-related limitations.

While Kovacevic was expected to be eligible for his season debut against the Vancouver Canucks, reports indicate he may not suit up immediately, though head coach Sheldon Keefe expects him back in the lineup in the near future.