Timo Meier’s Devils Tenure: Inconsistency, Growth, and Future Potential

One of the biggest issues remained the slew of injuries Meier was plagued with throughout the 2023-24 season, particularly to his shoulder, which required him to miss significant time. 

Despite his injuries, one thing remained a concern about Meier: his inconsistency.

In October of his first full season, Meier put up seven points in eight games, averaging three shots on goal per game. He was precisely what fans, players and coaches were hoping for: an elite top-six player with the ability to produce and dominate in all aspects of the game. He was sidelined for most of November, but still managed four points in six games.

The real trouble for Meier began in Dec. 2023. It was a brutal stretch — just four points in 14 games and nothing to show on the power play. His production was slipping, and fans began to wonder: had Meier already hit his peak?

His game slightly improved in January and February, but a major turnaround occurred in the final stretch of the regular season. Meier went on a five-game goal streak, including an impressive performance against the St. Louis Blues on March 7, 2024, that ended in a hat trick and an assist. All together, he concluded March with 20 points (13 goals, seven assists) in what fans now dub “Meier Madness.”

Though the Devils missed the playoffs that season, fans caught a glimpse of hope in Meier’s potential and looked forward to what he could bring in the coming year.

Year Three: 2024-25

This past season, Meier stepped up in new ways. Firmly established on a line with Hischier and Stefan Noesen, the trio combined for 83 goals and 163 points during the regular season, making them the team’s most consistent unit.

Meier continued to grow, showcasing a more complete game. His ability to balance his offensive skill while simultaneously using his 220-pound frame to his advantage is undeniable. He is a menace on the ice, and his physicality has brought much-needed grit to the Devils’ lineup. 

At the same time, his numbers and point production remained inconsistent. The top six winger went multiple stretches without a point, and struggled to score goals in the second half of the season. In Jan. 2025, Meier had one goal in 13 games, and that pattern continued into February, where he tallied just one assist throughout the month.

Once again in March, Meier ignited his offense, giving fans a much-needed sense of relief as one of their top forwards finally began producing.

The challenge for Meier and the Devils is maintaining consistency throughout the entirety of the NHL season, especially in critical moments during the grueling second half. His massive eight-year $70.4 million contract reflects the high expectations placed on him, and Meier is fully aware of that pressure. 

“I think [this past season] was a little bit up and down. I saw some areas of my game improve and I know there’s a different level of my game that I want to get to. I always want to add pieces…” Meier said at the end of the 2024-25 season exit interview. “I see this as a challenge to myself to get better over the summer, and I want to come in in better shape starting this season.”

What Does the Future Hold?

Reevaluating the Meier trade in light of his three seasons with New Jersey reveals a nuanced picture. Yes, he’s had moments of struggle, and injuries have disrupted his development. But he has also demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and the ability to elevate his game when it matters most. While his path hasn’t been perfectly linear, Meier remains an integral part of their core. His chemistry with Hischier and others forms the backbone of New Jersey’s top forward group.

For Devils fans, the hope is that Meier’s prime years are still ahead — that the flashes of “Meier Madness” can become the norm rather than the exception. If he can build on his improved two-way play, stay healthy, and remain consistent, the trade could well prove to be a cornerstone move that helps push the Devils deeper into playoff contention.