Despite impressive showings from some of the young guns, the Devils lost both their opening preseason games. Like MLB spring training and NFL training camp, the preseason only matters for guys returning from injury and players battling for the last few roster spots. For the Devils, a couple key players had impressive showings and raised their stock. If they show well again tonight against the Islanders, they could have a real shot at making the roster.

Brett Seney: The speedy forward’s stock has skyrocketed since he signed last spring. Seney is one of those players who fits perfectly in the Devils system. He is one of the fastest wingers in their pipeline and showed in the AHL last year he can handle playing professionally. Seney will need to keep the strong performances coming, though, if he wants a shot at the opening night roster.

Blake Speers: Many forget that Speers is no stranger to NHL hockey. He has already made his debut and he plays a position of need. He got on the board in Montreal and showed off his versatility, scoring short-handed. Speers is an all situations kind of player, and I wouldn’t be surprised if John Hynes sees him in the bottom six.

Michael McLeod: McLeod has all the tools necessary to make an impact at the NHL level. He just has to show he knows how to utilize them. He looked confident with the puck against the Rangers and picked up an assist on the powerplay. Hopefully, his strong performance continues tonight.

Line Combos:

Marian Studenic – Brett Seney – Drew Stafford
John Quenneville – Pavel Zacha – Joey Anderson
Blake Coleman – Travis Zajac – Michael McLeod
Blake Pietila – Kevin Rooney – Blake Speers

Will Butcher – Steven Santini
Egor Yakovlev – Damon Severson
Colby Sissons – John Ramage

Keith Kinkaid

Cam Johnson