After switching agents last summer, he signed a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche in September, joining a handful of former teammates, including Miles Wood .
From the outside, it seemed like an exciting fresh start in the mountains and another chance at a Stanley Cup, but for Tatar, it was the start of the most challenging season of his career.
"I signed a contract (very late), and it was very hard to organize things," he said. "I had to leave (training) camp for a few days to get my visa. It was just very messy from the start."
After 27 games, Colorado traded Tatar to the Seattle Kraken , where he concluded the 2023-24 campaign.
Through all the stress and changes in addresses, one constant in Tatar's life remained - communication with his former Devils teammates.
"I've been in touch with all the guys throughout most of the season. Pretty much with the whole team," Tatar said during his media availability on Monday.
Having chemistry with the players in the locker room helped make Tatar's choice to return to New Jersey that much clearer.
"It was a pretty easy decision to come back, and honestly, it feels like I am coming home," he said. "I know everyone. I know my teammates. I know the staff."
Tatar played for the Devils from the 2021-22 to 2022-23 season. He accumulated 78 points in 158 games and found great success playing with Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer .
"Coming into a locker room like that where you feel the bond and the camaraderie that is there is just a great feeling," he said.
General Manager Tom Fitzgerald made several moves, including signing Tatar. He also signed defensemen Brett Pesce and Brenden Dillon and forward Stefan Noesen. Fitzgerald brought in Jacob Markstrom , Paul Cotter, and Johnathan Kovacevic through trades.
The Devils have confirmed that Tatar will once again wear number 90 when the 2024-25 season opens up in Prague on Oct. 4.
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