April, 2025 - Explore New Jersey

Camden County Economic Outlook: Rising Property Values, Falling Unemployment, and Concerns Over Federal Policies

On Friday, Camden County Commissioner-Director Lou Cappelli, alongside several local mayors, shared their insights on the economic outlook for the region in the coming year. During the discussion, the leaders addressed key trends in residential, commercial, and recreational developments, while also expressing concerns about how federal policies may impact the county’s economic trajectory.

Strong Property Values and a Booming Real Estate Market

One of the most notable points of discussion was the continued rise in property values across Camden County. As demand for housing grows in both residential and commercial sectors, the county is seeing increased property values, particularly in suburban areas close to Philadelphia. This trend is expected to persist as more people and businesses look to take advantage of the area’s proximity to the city, along with its expanding amenities and infrastructure.

Cappelli noted that Camden County’s real estate market remains resilient despite broader economic uncertainties. Homebuyers and developers alike are capitalizing on available opportunities, with property values steadily increasing, particularly in neighborhoods undergoing revitalization or near major transportation hubs. The county’s commercial properties also saw growth, with more businesses investing in the area due to its strategic location and competitive business environment.

Unemployment Rates Continue to Drop

Another positive trend discussed during the meeting was the continued decline in unemployment rates across Camden County. The region has seen significant job growth over the past year, fueled by new developments, infrastructure projects, and an uptick in both local and regional business activity. The unemployment rate has steadily decreased, a trend that local leaders expect to continue as new industries and employers move into the area.

Cappelli expressed optimism about the county’s job market, pointing to ongoing investments in workforce development, which are helping to match residents with job opportunities. The county’s focus on creating an environment where both businesses and workers can thrive is expected to further lower unemployment and contribute to economic growth.

Concerns Over Federal Policies

While the economic outlook for Camden County remains generally positive, local leaders raised concerns about the potential impact of federal policies. Uncertainties surrounding federal regulations, tax changes, and spending cuts have created some unease in the business community. Local mayors and officials are particularly concerned about how these policies could affect infrastructure funding, education, and health services, which are all critical to the county’s continued development and economic stability.

Cappelli and others emphasized the need for proactive measures at the state and local levels to mitigate potential negative effects from federal decisions. They stressed that while Camden County’s economy is showing resilience, federal policy shifts could present challenges, especially for industries reliant on government contracts, infrastructure development, and social programs.

Residential, Commercial, and Recreational Developments

Looking ahead, Camden County is expecting further growth in residential, commercial, and recreational developments. New residential projects are expected to continue flourishing, driven by the area’s increasing appeal to young professionals, families, and retirees. The influx of new residents is anticipated to boost demand for amenities like retail, dining, and entertainment options, leading to the development of new commercial spaces.

Additionally, Camden County’s commitment to expanding recreational opportunities was highlighted, with new parks, trails, and public spaces set to enhance the quality of life for residents. These developments aim to improve the overall appeal of the area and provide spaces for outdoor activities, which will be important as more people continue to move to the region.

A Look Ahead

As Camden County moves forward into the coming year, local leaders remain focused on maintaining a balanced and sustainable growth strategy. While the county’s economy is on a positive trajectory, the potential impact of federal policies is a concern that will need to be carefully managed. By continuing to invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and community engagement, Camden County is positioning itself for long-term success, but it will need to stay vigilant in adapting to external economic challenges.

In summary, Camden County’s economic outlook for the year ahead is marked by higher property values, lower unemployment, and promising new developments, tempered by concerns over the unpredictable nature of federal policies. Local leaders remain committed to navigating these challenges while continuing to build a vibrant, sustainable community.

What’s Next for New Jersey’s Spring Real Estate Market?

As the spring season arrives, New Jersey’s housing market is seeing an increase in the number of homes hitting the market. After a period of limited inventory, more properties are becoming available for potential buyers. The question now is: will buyers seize the opportunity, or will uncertainty continue to hold them back?

More Homes Available, But Will They Sell?

As temperatures rise and the spring home-buying season gets underway, New Jersey homeowners are finally listing their properties, signaling a potential shift in the market. After months of tight inventory, the influx of homes could give buyers more options, but the big question is whether demand will match the new supply.

With interest rates fluctuating and the economy in a state of flux, many buyers remain cautious. However, some experts believe that the rise in available homes could create a sense of urgency among those who have been waiting for the right opportunity to enter the market. The combination of increased inventory and the ongoing desire for homeownership may encourage buyers to take the plunge.

Market Dynamics: What to Expect

The spring market in New Jersey traditionally brings an uptick in both buyers and sellers, and this year is no exception. However, the landscape may look a bit different due to a variety of factors, including economic conditions, mortgage rates, and buyer sentiment.

Higher mortgage rates have been a concern for many prospective buyers, making them hesitant to commit. While rates have remained relatively stable, they are still higher than in previous years, leading some buyers to reconsider their timing. Additionally, with inflationary pressures continuing, many buyers may be more cautious in making a big investment.

On the other hand, New Jersey’s real estate market remains attractive, especially in areas with strong schools, good access to transportation, and proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia. These factors continue to draw interest from both local and out-of-state buyers, creating potential opportunities for sellers.

Will Buyers Move Forward?

The question remains: will New Jersey buyers take advantage of the larger selection of homes this spring, or will concerns about affordability and interest rates deter them? Many buyers who have been waiting for more options may be eager to act, especially if they see their dream home come on the market.

At the same time, sellers will need to be mindful of pricing. With the increase in inventory, competitive pricing will be key to attracting interested buyers. Homes that are priced too high could face longer market times, especially if the demand does not meet expectations.

The Bottom Line

New Jersey’s spring real estate market is shaping up to be an interesting one. With more homes becoming available, buyers now have a wider range of choices, but concerns about interest rates and the overall economic climate could impact demand. For buyers, this may be the moment to make a move, while sellers will need to be strategic in their pricing and marketing.

Whether buyers decide to take the plunge or wait for even better conditions, the spring market in New Jersey will be one to watch as inventory levels rise and the dynamics of the housing market continue to evolve.

From NPR: It’s springtime, and “For Sale” signs are popping up in front of homes across the country.

But with so much uncertainty in the economy, it’s an open question whether the spring housing market will be hot … or not. Let’s check out the forecast.

It’s certainly not the cheapest time to buy a home. The average 30-year mortgage rate is now 6.65%, down a bit from January, but still pretty high.

Many analysts predict that mortgage rates will linger around this level for now, especially since the Federal Reserve has indicated it’s unlikely to cut interest rates until later this year.

Selma Hepp, chief economist at real estate analysis firm Cotality, says market volatility could bring down mortgage rates. That’s because mortgages typically follow the yield on 10-year Treasury bonds, which are affected by investors’ worries about the economy.

“Because of the concerns around a slowing job market, because of concerns maybe about rising risks of a recession,” Hepp says.

But there are other factors keeping mortgage rates high – among them, inflationary policies like tariffs.

Another deterrent for buyers is the elevated cost to buy a home. The median home price has shot up 47% in just the last five years.

Last year was the slowest existing home sales market since 1995. It’s wasn’t that people didn’t want to buy — there simply wasn’t much for sale.

The big question now is whether a frozen market can begin to thaw. Signs suggest things are starting to shift, with more inventory coming on the market.

In February, there were 17% more existing homes for sale compared to last year, followed by a 10% increase in new listings in March compared to a year ago.

Weather in New Jersey This Week

Discussion: A trough is swinging into place over the NE US. It’s not a deep nor negative tilted trough but certainly packed with below-average temperatures for the region which will influence NJ this week. Much of our precipitation the last few days has been from the convergence of S flow from the departing SE ridge/Bermuda high and trough influence from the N/NW. As this boundary of convergence pulls away and colder air infiltrates the region, it could change rain over to snow for NWNJ elevations overnight tonight (Monday night into Tuesday morning), mainly N of I-80 and NW of I-287. This might be the last mention of snow until later in Q4 of this year. I wouldn’t get too excited though, only trace accumulations are possible for only the highest NWNJ elevations. Precipitation dynamics end Tuesday morning by sunrise, leaving NJ in a temporary NW jet of cold air for Tuesday-Wednesday (inside the trough/behind sfc low). A little bit of ridging tries to build for Wednesday night into Friday morning. This changes wind direction to S/SE or SE. The only problem with that is the ocean is still in the mid-to-upper 40s…so marine flow will keep the remainder of this week colder. Another upper-low/trough then pushes through for this coming weekend with likely a rain system on the front of it for Friday into Saturday morning. Improvement is then expected Sunday-forward as that trough/upper-low departs. Basically, it looks rainy today (Monday). Then cold, clear and dry Tues-Wed. Cold, cloudy and wet Thurs-Sat. Then mild Sunday into next week. These synoptic rain systems continue to take solid stabs at the drought situation that began late last Summer and carried through Fall/Winter.

Forecast

Monday (April 7) high temperatures will struggle to escape the 40s for most of NJ. Skies should remain cloudy with periods of rain likely and improvement by evening/overnight hours. Winds should be light out of the NE. Overnight lows should range from 30-40 NNJ to SNJ. A very small chance for rain to change to snow for any leftover precipitation overnight. Nothing more than trace accumulations for the highest elevations are expected (N of I-80 and NW of I-287).

Tuesday (April 8) high temperatures should again, fail to break out of the 40s statewide. Skies should be mixed with sun and clouds. Winds should be breezy-to-gusty out of the W/NW. Overnight lows should range from 35-35 NNJ to SNJ.

Wednesday (April 9) high temperatures should hover a few degrees on either side of 50. Skies should be mixed with more sun than clouds. Winds should be light-to-breezy out of the W. Overnight lows should range from 30-40 NNJ to SNJ.

Thursday (April 10) high temperatures should reach the low-to-mid 50s for most NJ locations. Skies should be mostly cloudy. Winds should be light-to-breezy out of the S/SE (breeziest along the SENJ coast). Overnight lows should fall back into the 40s with periods of rain possible.

Friday (April 11) high temperatures should reach the low-to-mid 50s for most NJ locations. Skies should be cloudy with period of rain likely. Winds should be breezy out of the SE. Overnight lows should fall to the 45-50 range with rain and breezy winds continuing into Saturday.

An early look at the weekend (April 12-13) indicates improvement on Saturday, once AM rain ends followed by sun and milder temperatures returning for Sunday into the following week. Let’s have another look in a few days. Have a great week and please be safe! JC

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Ben & Jerry's free cone day poster 2025 image001 (2)

Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day is Back for 2025!

Today marks the return of the much-anticipated Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s, a beloved annual tradition that ice cream fans eagerly look forward to. This year, the event is bigger and better than ever, offering customers a chance to enjoy a free scoop of their favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavor.

A Sweet Celebration for All

Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day has become a signature event for the brand, drawing crowds eager to indulge in a free treat while celebrating the joy of ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like Chocolate Fudge Brownie or adventurous combinations like Cinnamon Buns, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

This event isn’t just about giving out free ice cream — it’s a way for Ben & Jerry’s to show appreciation for its loyal customers and give back to the community. The company has held this event annually for years, making it a fun tradition that ice cream lovers anticipate each spring.

How to Get Your Free Scoop

Getting your hands on a free scoop is simple! Just visit any participating Ben & Jerry’s shop today, and you can pick from a variety of their delicious flavors. While supplies last, you can enjoy a free cone in-store. However, be sure to check with your local Ben & Jerry’s for specific details on timing and availability, as some locations may have adjusted hours or other rules for the event.

A Celebration of Flavor and Community

Beyond offering a free treat, Free Cone Day also serves as an opportunity for Ben & Jerry’s to promote its commitment to sustainability, social justice, and community support. Throughout the event, they continue to raise awareness about important causes and encourage customers to join them in making a positive impact.

So if you’re craving a delicious scoop, head to your nearest Ben & Jerry’s today to take part in the fun and enjoy your favorite ice cream flavor—on the house!

Don’t miss out—this annual celebration only happens once a year!

Xian Zhang and New Jersey Symphony offer a dose of joy at NJPAC concert

Concerts took place April 3-6 in Newark and New Brunswick.

NJ/NY Watchdog Groups Raise Concerns Over Potential Voting Irregularities in 2024 Election

As the 2024 election approaches, watchdog groups in New Jersey and New York are raising alarms about potential voting irregularities, including suspicious voter registrations and the possibility of double voting. These concerns have sparked action from groups like Citizens for New Jersey Election Integrity, which has partnered with Project Civica to investigate the matter further.

Allegations of Suspicious Registrations

The groups have flagged what they believe to be unusual patterns in voter registrations, specifically in areas where there is an apparent overlap of residents being registered multiple times or under questionable circumstances. These irregularities have prompted calls for a closer review of the registration process to ensure that only eligible voters are participating in the election.

While it’s not unusual for errors to occur during the registration process, these groups are particularly concerned about the scale and scope of the discrepancies they’ve uncovered. Their efforts aim to ensure the integrity of the voting system and to prevent any form of manipulation or fraud.

Concerns Over Double Voting

Another key issue raised by these watchdogs is the potential for double voting. Double voting, which occurs when an individual casts ballots in more than one location or under multiple identities, poses a significant threat to the fairness of elections. With multiple states allowing early voting and mail-in ballots, the risk of such actions has grown.

Citizens for New Jersey Election Integrity and Project Civica are pushing for stricter safeguards and closer monitoring to prevent such occurrences. They have called for stronger verification processes, particularly with regard to absentee ballots, and for greater transparency in the way votes are counted and verified.

A Call to Action

In response to these concerns, local political figures, including U.S. Attorney Habba, are being urged to take swift action to investigate and address the issues raised by the groups. The watchdogs argue that it’s crucial for government officials to act quickly to uphold voter confidence and ensure that the upcoming election is conducted fairly.

The collaboration between Citizens for New Jersey Election Integrity and Project Civica is just one example of how community groups and activists are working together to safeguard the integrity of the 2024 election. Their efforts underscore the importance of transparency, accuracy, and vigilance in maintaining the credibility of the electoral process.

As Election Day draws closer, these concerns are expected to remain at the forefront of discussions surrounding election security and the protection of voter rights. With both state and federal attention focused on ensuring free and fair elections, the investigation into potential registration issues and double voting practices will continue to play a significant role in shaping the 2024 election landscape.

Easy-to-Transport Picnic Charcuterie Board: A Perfect Party Addition

A picnic charcuterie board is an ideal choice for adding a burst of flavor to any outdoor event or gathering, and it’s just as great for indoor parties too! Combining an assortment of meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, and more, this convenient and portable snack option is sure to impress at picnics, potlucks, BBQs, and other celebrations. It’s quick to assemble and offers a delightful variety of tastes that everyone will enjoy.

A Flavorful and Versatile Spread

A well-crafted picnic charcuterie board brings together a beautiful variety of flavors and textures. With carefully selected cured meats like salami and prosciutto, rich cheeses such as brie and cheddar, and fresh fruits like grapes, berries, and figs, this spread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Add some crackers, bread, and a few dips or spreads, and you’ve got a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ or a more formal gathering, this charcuterie board is a simple and stylish way to elevate the menu. It’s versatile enough to be customized based on personal tastes, dietary preferences, or seasonal ingredients, making it easy to adapt to any occasion.

Simple to Assemble and Easy to Transport

One of the best features of a picnic charcuterie board is how easy it is to put together. Just grab a large platter or wooden board, arrange your selections of meats, cheeses, fruits, and accompaniments, and voilà – a stunning spread is ready in minutes. For an extra touch, consider adding some fresh herbs, nuts, or even chocolate to enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile.

When it comes to transport, a picnic charcuterie board is incredibly convenient. Simply pack it up in a portable container with a lid, and you’re ready to go. Whether you’re heading to a picnic in the park, a beach gathering, or a friend’s house, this easy-to-transport option ensures that you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that’s simple to bring along.

Perfect for Any Event

A picnic charcuterie board is the ultimate addition to any social gathering. It’s perfect for casual events like outdoor picnics and BBQs, but it also works well for more formal celebrations like wine tastings or holiday parties. With its effortless elegance and wide variety of flavors, it’s a great choice for impressing your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Next time you’re planning an outdoor event or need a quick party snack, consider assembling a picnic charcuterie board. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make, and delicious option that’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or gathering around the table, this flavorful spread is the perfect way to add a little extra enjoyment to your day!

Meet the Music: Musical Fairy Tales

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – 1:00pm to 3:00pm

https://concerts.princeton.edu/events/25-26-meet-the-music/

Cost:

$11 Adults/$6 Kids

What can music say—can a violin order a pizza? Join The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center for a fantastical journey as enchanting fairy tales from around the world are brought to life through music.

Recommended Age:

6-12

Age:

Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall

Princeton University Campus

08542

Princeton
, NJ

Phone:
609-258-9220

40° 21′ 15.354″ N, 74° 39′ 43.2″ W

New Jersey

Ticketed:

Activity Category:

Music

Admission Services

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$35 Million Loan Secured for 202-Unit Development on Jersey City’s West Side Avenue

A major development project on Jersey City’s West Side Avenue has just secured significant financial backing. The adaptive reuse initiative, which involves transforming a former warehouse into a modern mixed-use complex, has been awarded a $35 million loan to help fund its expansion and conversion.

Transforming a Warehouse into a Mixed-Use Hub

This ambitious project aims to breathe new life into an older industrial space by repurposing the existing warehouse and adding residential and commercial elements. The development will include 202 residential units, creating a vibrant living community, alongside retail and commercial spaces that will further enhance the area’s appeal.

By focusing on adaptive reuse, the developers are not only preserving a piece of Jersey City’s history but also addressing the demand for mixed-use spaces that combine residential, retail, and office components. The project is set to play a significant role in revitalizing the neighborhood while providing much-needed housing and commercial opportunities.

Strong Financial Support for the Project

Securing the $35 million loan is a key milestone for the development team, providing them with the necessary resources to move forward with the transformation. This financial backing highlights the project’s potential, both in terms of its contribution to the local economy and its ability to attract investors and stakeholders.

The loan will help cover the costs of renovation, expansion, and infrastructure improvements, with a focus on creating a high-quality, sustainable space that will attract residents and businesses alike. Developers are optimistic that the project will set a new standard for mixed-use developments in Jersey City.

Impact on Jersey City’s Growth

This development is expected to have a positive impact on the local community and economy. By bringing in new residents and businesses, the project will help stimulate the West Side Avenue area, which has been seeing increasing interest from developers and investors in recent years.

With its mix of residential, retail, and commercial space, the development will provide a more diverse living and working environment, contributing to Jersey City’s ongoing growth and transformation. As more projects like this one continue to emerge, Jersey City’s West Side Avenue is poised to become a more dynamic and vibrant area for both residents and businesses.

Looking Ahead

The successful financing of this adaptive reuse project is a strong indicator of the growing demand for well-designed, mixed-use developments in Jersey City. As construction moves forward, the development is set to become a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s revitalization efforts, offering a modern, integrated living experience while honoring the area’s industrial past.

Six Reasons To Believe the Devils Are on the Upswing Again

The New Jersey Devils’ magic number is down to three, and they have plenty of reasons to believe their playoff appearance won’t just be for show.

Even though the Devils are set to clinch a playoff spot in the next few days, the overall energy surrounding the team seemed very negative until very recently. The Devils were down three huge contributors, they were blowing games, and they looked lost on offense for much of the first half of March. That all changed when the team went to Minnesota, looking to take wins against a playoff team. After succeeding there, the Devils buried the New York Rangers in another home shutout of their rival, restoring much of the team’s vibe to what they were like earlier in the season.

But this is not just a team that stocked up enough points in November and December to sleepwalk into the playoffs. There are real reasons to leave disappointment behind, choosing to embrace hope as the end of the season draws near.

Reason One: Bratt, Hischier, and Meier Are All Producing

Since Jack Hughes’s injury last month, all of Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Timo Meier have done well to make sure the team’s offense has stayed afloat. Bratt has 4 goals and 20 points. Nico has 10 goals and 19 points, and Timo has eight goals and 10 points since Hughes’s injury. While Timo’s total points have lagged a bit behind the other two, his goal-scoring is what’s important, and scoring more than a goal for every two games played is more than enough to stimulate the offense. Bratt, meanwhile, has regained his early-season form, while Nico seems intent on reaching 40 goals this year.

People do not give Nico Hischier enough credit. When Jack Hughes went down, it did not occur to anyone that Hischier might be able to put the team on his back. But Nico is a first overall pick. Nico has 35 goals. Nico plays all situations and is a constant offensive creator. If he plays like he has been in the playoffs, the Devils will dominate the Carolina top line.

Reason Two: Brian Dumoulin is Helping to Stabilize the Defense

In total, since joining the New Jersey Devils against Winnipeg on March 7, Brian Dumoulin ranks second on the team in CF% (53.33) and xGF% (49.04) at five-on-five. For a team that was desperately searching for an answer to Jonas Siegenthaler’s injury, Dumoulin has been a solid partner for Johnny Kovacevic. He might not be the flashy player everyone wanted at the trade deadline, but Dumoulin has been excellent over the last seven games. During this span, he had a CF% under 50.00 only once (against Chicago), while only posting an xGF% under 50.00 twice (38.26 against Winnipeg and 49.03 against Minnesota). It might have just taken Dumoulin a minute to adjust from Anaheim Ducks hockey to Sheldon Keefe’s Devils, but he has integrated himself very well. One area I really enjoy watching Dumoulin is how steady he is with the puck in the defensive zone, as Kovacevic was turning the puck over a lot between Siegenthaler’s injury and the point that Dumoulin became comfortable with the team. Now that they have played 14 games together, the Devils’ second pairing is now able to move the puck much more efficiently against the forecheck.

Reason Three: Jacob Markstrom is Playing Like Himself

While the initial few appearances after his return from a knee injury did not go very smoothly, Jacob Markstrom has settled back into his 1A level of play with five straight games allowing three or fewer goals. Over the last three starts, Markstrom has held opponents to two or fewer goals per game, winning both ends of a home-and-home with the Minnesota Wild before sticking a nail in the New York Rangers’ coffin with a Saturday afternoon shutout. In these last five games, where Markstrom has given up 10 goals, he has stopped 3.99 goals above average.

Now just three points away from clinching a playoff spot, the team will be able to split playing time pretty evenly between Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. I would expect Markstrom to play three more games, with Allen getting two. Since Allen was playing well prior to Markstrom’s full recovery, the Devils do have a safety net for the playoffs. However, I would love to see Markstrom take this run of excellent play into Carolina — he is now the team’s true X-Factor in how the rest of the 2024-25 season goes. Since I believe Markstrom wants to win a Cup in his career, I do not think he’s going to care that much about how far people expect the team to go without Jack Hughes.

It’s hard not to believe in him when he’s putting it all out there. His puck tracking has taken a huge step over the last week — just look at his save against Zibanejad on Saturday above.

Reason Four: Luke Hughes is on a Tear

Luke Hughes started this season off a bit slow offensively, focusing mostly on defensive fundamentals with his rock-solid partner, Brett Pesce. As he has felt more comfortable over the course of the year, his creativity has flowed. Shots that would miss the net in November are going in. Passes that got broken up in December are hitting teammates’ sticks. Now, with 16 points over his last 14 games played, including two goals on 1.59 ixG, Luke is picking up for a lot of the offense that was lost when Jack and Dougie got hurt.

It is easy for some to forget how young Luke Hughes is. What he is doing this season is something top defensive prospects aren’t expected to pull off — combining offensive production and defensive excellence — until they’re 23, 24, or 25 years old. Some never put the two together. But Luke is just 21 years old, and he is going to be incredibly difficult to contain when players start getting worn out in the playoffs.

Reason Five: Dougie Hamilton May Return Soon

While Seamus Casey had a beautiful assist in his return against the Rangers on Saturday, the Devils should still get a massive offensive boost from Dougie Hamilton over the next few weeks. Pierre LeBrun reported last week that the Devils have some hope that Hamilton may be able to play in regular season games, after initially believing him to be out until the second round or later. Dougie will pass the five-week mark on his injury tomorrow, meaning he is towards the end of his timetable.

In conjunction with Reason Four, getting a Dillon-Hamilton third pair on the ice would be a matchup nightmare for opponents. Dougie is still an elite, top defenseman in the NHL. However, given that he is coming off a knee injury, he can be eased back into his responsibilities with easier competition, allowing the Hughes-Pesce and Dumoulin-Kovacevic pairings to continue winning their matchups in the top four. Getting Dougie on the ice with the bottom six should also open up a lot of ice, with many deflection goals to be picked up by those who have a knack for it (looking at you two, Mercer and Noesen). Getting anyone who can score at any time onto the ice is a blessing.

Reason Six: Arseni Gritsyuk May Be a Devil

I was originally going to mention Gritsyuk in the above section, as I was uncertain about whether Gritsyuk would sign this or next season. Due to visa concerns, KHL contracts, and the proximity of this team to the playoffs, not many outlets were expecting Gritsyuk to wear red and black this season. That has changed today, with SKA St. Petersburg eliminated from the KHL playoffs. To bring him over, Tom Fitzgerald and the Devils’ ownership group would have to come to a buyout agreement with SKA to release Gritsyuk from his contract that expires around the third round of the NHL playoffs. Today, some accounts on Twitter, including Hockey News Hub and JP Gambatese, began to say that Gritsyuk was set to sign his ELC soon.

Hearing #NJDevils prospect Arseni Gritsyuk will sign his ELC soon.

— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) April 7, 2025

So, Arseni may be a Devil this year. I was kind of expecting Fitzgerald to save his Entry-Level Contract year for 2025-26, but going this route would make Gritsyuk available for the playoff run — potentially making up for some offense lost to injuries — while making Gritsyuk a bit happier, as he would get an RFA contract next season. We are still in the rumor mill stages here, but perhaps a reporter will give us more reason to hope soon.

Your Thoughts

How are you feeling about the team following their recent three-game winning streak? Do you feel more confident in this team? What are you most excited to see from this group over the next couple weeks? Leave your thoughts in the comments below, and thanks for reading.