Toninato, a 29-year-old Minnesota native, has been a dependable fourth-line center for the Jets, appearing in 99 games over the past four seasons since joining as a free agent in 2020-21. This season, he's played in 15 games, the most since his career-high 77 games in 2021-22, contributing with a goal and four assists while averaging 10:11 of ice time per game.
With the Jets' roster already at the maximum of 23 players and David Gustafsson likely returning from injury, they had to make a move. Although recalling Ville Heinola is an option, it seems unlikely given Brenden Dillon's imminent return from suspension. The Jets didn't previously make a move to free up space for a seventh defenseman.
Willman has appeared in 13 games for the Devils this season, tallying two points (one goal, one assist). Hailing from Barnstable, Massachusetts, he joined the New Jersey Devils as a free agent on October 7, 2023, after spending several seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers organization.
If he clears waivers, Willman will be assigned to the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League, where he has recorded 16 points in 20 games.
