Can We Expect Positive Regression From Tatar?

Tomas Tatar was disappointing last season despite signing a 2-year, $9 million deal with the New Jersey Devils. He scored 15 goals and had 15 assists in 76 games last year. His career from 2013-2021 produced 171 goals, 396 points in 598 games. The team as a whole had a low Goals For Percentage when he was on the ice. He had an on ice shooting percentage of 6.8%. The Devils had low GF% of 39.77%. He also had lower assists than usual. There were 13 forwards on team who played at least 500 minutes at 5v5 last time.

Tatar played with Hischier and Mercer last year. He played significant minutes with Zacha and Johnsson. Tatar was brought to New Jersey to score. There are some chances for positive regression. However, it's not enough to get him over 50 points next season. He needs more time with better linemates on the top 6. If the coaching staff wants to keep him on third line, they should give him another chance on second line with Nico.