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How Devils' John Hynes will handle lineup decisions with 8 defensemen

The Devils got a boost to their lineup on Tuesday when defenseman Mirco Mueller played for the first time since fracturing his clavicle on Nov. 12.

Mueller contributed to the Devils' 3-1 in in Buffalo against the Sabres, but his presence adds another wrinkle for coach John Hynes.

How will he balance playing time for eight healthy defensemen?

The Devils rolled with seven defensemen on Tuesday, making that decision a little easier. But with the Devils set to play 14 games over the first 27 days of February, they will have to use their 12-forward.