Dougie Hamilton returns to Devils lineup against Wild

Dougie Hamilton, scratched in the previous game, is back in the New Jersey Devils' lineup for Monday night's game against the Minnesota Wild; Johnathan Kovacevic was cleared to play and Simon Nemec will sit as the team manages a back-to-back.

Dougie Hamilton is back in the New Jersey Devils' lineup for Monday night's game against the Minnesota Wild after being scratched for one game. Johnathan Kovacevic returned to the lineup Sunday after offseason knee surgery and was cleared to play in the back-to-back, so Simon Nemec will come out for Monday. The scratch of Hamilton drew attention because reports say the Devils are seeking to trade him and that he blocked a summer move to the San Jose Sharks. Coach Sheldon Keefe said he told Hamilton to stay ready and expects players who come out of the lineup to remain professional and perform when given a chance. What is known: - Hamilton was scratched for one game and is scheduled to play Monday against the Minnesota Wild. - Johnathan Kovacevic returned after offseason knee surgery, played in Winnipeg, and was cleared by the medical staff to play in Monday's back-to-back. - Simon Nemec, who missed 12 games with injury and had played two in a row, will sit to avoid a second straight game and was described by the coach as still regaining his prior level. - Agent J.P. Barry told The Athletic the decision to scratch Hamilton was "about business" and noted Hamilton has a 10-team trade list, as reported in media coverage. - Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald said the right side is fully healthy with Kovacevic and Brett Pesce available, and described the move as a lineup business decision; Hamilton is in the fifth year of a seven-year contract and has five goals and 10 points in 40 games. Summary: Hamilton's return restores the Devils' defensive depth for Monday's game while Nemec is being rested and is expected to return when the team begins a homestand in Seattle on Wednesday. Reports about the team's efforts to trade Hamilton and comments from his agent have created outside attention; Undetermined at this time.