Curtis Lazar’s influence both on and off the ice is profound for the New Jersey Devils. While he may describe himself as a “happy-go-lucky guy” away from the rink, his infectious positivity plays a vital role in shaping the team’s culture within the locker room.
Teammates like Jonas Siegenthaler and Tomas Nosek praise Lazar for his energetic presence and approachability. They highlight his friendly demeanor and constant smile, noting how he uplifts the team with his energy during both games and practices.
Interim head coach Travis Green echoes these sentiments, emphasizing Lazar’s work ethic and resilience throughout his career. Despite transitioning from a high draft pick and goal-scoring forward to a bottom-six role player, Lazar’s commitment to hard work and team dynamics hasn’t wavered. Green emphasizes the importance of players like Lazar, who contribute in ways that may go unnoticed but are essential for team success.
Lazar’s nomination for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which recognizes perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey, further underscores his impact. Reflecting on his journey, Lazar expresses pride in overcoming challenges and credits the supportive team environment for his success.
“He’s got that youthful look, but don’t let that fool you, he’s got some experience under his belt,” Green quipped about Lazar. “But what often goes unnoticed is the personal challenges players face both on and off the ice, including family matters. Lazar dealt with some difficult situations last year, being away from his family while his wife was pregnant, and that’s never easy. Throughout it all, he’s maintained a professional demeanor. It’s a well-deserved nomination.”
