Merzlikins missed some time with injuries in 2021 but the Blue Jackets are committed to him as their No.1 option on Tuesday, signing him to a five-year deal. Merzlikins greatly outperformed Joonas Korpisalo last year, posting a .916 SV% in 28 appearances and has breakout potential for 2022.
Jaros immediately signed a two-way contract with the Devils after being dealt from San Jose. Jaros has spent most of his time in the AHL over the last two seasons, so expect that to be the case again in 2021-22.
This is the second time in seventh months that Jaros has been traded. After moving from Ottawa to San Jose, Jatos had one assist in seven games with the Sharks and three assists in 11 AHL games. In New Jersey, he will likely report to the AHL to start 2021-22.
Monahan has had an extremely disappointing season, scoring just 10 goals with 18 assists (28 points) in 50 games. Playing through a hip injury could help explain some of his inconsistencies throughout the season. The final four games are completely meaningless, so shutting him down now ensures he'll be ready for the start of the 2022 season.
Coyle will be ready for the playoffs but is expected to miss the final two games of the season. With Coyle out, the Bruins will likely get a look at Ondrej Kase, who has missed almost all of 2021.
Coyle is day-to-day with an upper-body injury, so look for Karson Kuhlman to replace him in the lineup. Coyle should be considered questionable for Saturday's rematch vs. the Rangers.
