Tonight, the New Jersey Devils look to find a win in their what is likely their final preseason game with NHL players. The team leaves for Prague on Sunday where they will practice and go sightseeing in preparation for their first two games of the season against Buffalo next Friday and Saturday.
The Devils are 0-3-0 in preseason, While the Islanders are 1-2-0. Their one win came against New Jersey at the rock.
Match Overview
With the team heading overseas following Friday’s affair this is going to be a very NHL heavy lineup to get them some final game action. That means we probably see the likes of Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, Timo Meier, and Dougie Hamilton all playing for the second consecutive game.
It also seems likely we see the preseason debut of Erik Haula who was recovering after being sick to begin camp.
Lines and Pairings
Keep your eyes on our social media pages to keep up to date with preseason lineups for both squads.
Keys to the Game
Extra Players
This game is very important to decide what extras will join the core roster in Czechia. The Devils will only ice 20 players on opening night, but are allowed to bring 26 with them.
With Luke Hughes and possibly Brett Pesce out to start the season all eyes are on the extra defenseman to step up. That includes the likes of Johnathan Kovacevic and Santeri Hatakka. Head coach Sheldon Keefe has also made a point to compliment the game of Seamus Casey who could be a candidate to join the team at least for the first two games. Expect Nick DeSimone to also make the trip.
As for the forwards, you would assume that Nolan Foote will be on the roster along with Kuris MacDermid who signed a three year extension in the offseason. After those two, it’s up in the air as to who will join the squad. Other candidates are Justin Dowling, Shane Bowers, Kevin LaBanc, and possibly Adam Beckman (although he has yet to play in the preseason due to injury).
Nico Daws is also expected to travel overseas as an extra netminder.
Markstrom’s Warm-Up
Jacob Markstrom has had a not ideal start to his preseason. In 1 2/3 games he’s allowed six goals on 45 shots for an .867 save percentage. The defense in front of him hasn’t been great, and Markstrom has made some spectacular saves.
We’ll see how he performs Friday if he gets a chance and to open the season on October 4.
Where to Watch
Friday night’s game is slated for a 7:00 pm ET puck drop. The game will be televised on MSG and MSG SportsNet.