The New Jersey Devils enter mid-October riding cautious optimism, balancing an encouraging start to their NHL campaign with an early wave of injuries that’s already testing their depth. With a 2-1-0 record and their home opener on deck at the Prudential Center against the Florida Panthers, the Devils have managed to keep their stride thanks to strong play from newcomers, reliable veterans, and an impressive surge of young talent developing across the hockey landscape.
Forward Zack MacEwen’s upper-body injury has landed him on injured reserve, sidelining a key physical presence in the lineup. In goal, uncertainty lingers as starter Jacob Markstrom remains under evaluation following an injury sustained late in the team’s win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on October 13. Backup Jake Allen also left that game due to cramping but returned to practice this week, a reassuring sign that he’ll be ready for duty. To bolster their goaltending depth, the Devils recalled Nico Daws from the Utica Comets (AHL), and there’s a strong possibility he could start in the home opener if Markstrom isn’t cleared to play.
Even with the lineup in flux, the Devils’ early performances have highlighted the team’s balance and resilience. Rookie forward Arseny Gritsyuk has made an immediate impact with three assists in his first three NHL games, flashing poise and creativity that have already placed him among early Calder Trophy conversations. Coach Sheldon Keefe has emphasized patience with his young winger, but Gritsyuk’s confidence and skill are making him hard to keep out of key offensive situations.
Veteran Connor Brown has also found his rhythm after a solid performance in the team’s victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, showcasing his trademark work ethic and versatility. His ability to contribute on both ends of the ice continues to add value to a roster that thrives on speed, depth, and energy.
The Devils currently sit third in the Metropolitan Division, buoyed by consistent offensive production from stars Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier. On defense, Dougie Hamilton and Luke Hughes continue to anchor the blue line with their blend of composure and offensive instincts. The upcoming schedule, however, offers no respite, featuring matchups against the Florida Panthers, Edmonton Oilers, and Colorado Avalanche—three teams loaded with firepower and top-end talent.
While the NHL roster grinds through early-season challenges, the Devils’ prospect pipeline is already generating headlines of its own. In the NCAA, Ben Kevan, New Jersey’s 2025 draft pick, made a stellar collegiate debut for Arizona State by netting his first two goals in a 5–3 victory over Notre Dame at the Ice Breaker Tournament. The freshman forward’s scoring touch and energy on both ends of the ice immediately stood out, signaling a promising start to his collegiate career and giving Devils fans a glimpse of future potential.
Across the college ranks, other Devils prospects are also producing early. Boston University’s Conrad Fondrk registered an assist in his return from injury, while defensemen Charlie Leddy and Chase Cheslock each collected two assists to open the season. In the USHL, winger David Rozsival is finding his stride with three points in his last week of play for the Green Bay Gamblers, giving him three points through eight games.
In the AHL, the Utica Comets dropped their first two games of the season to the Cleveland Monsters, but both contests were tight. Goaltender Nico Daws, before his NHL recall, was outstanding in the opener, stopping 26 of 27 shots in a narrow 1–0 loss. In the rematch, goaltender Jakub Malek made his Comets debut, earning an overtime loss but showing strong control and positioning. Veteran scorers Xavier Parent and Brian Halonen each found the back of the net, with assists coming from Matyas Melovsky and Ethan Edwards.
Overseas, Gustav Hillstrom has earned a call-up to Brynäs IF of the SHL after a dominant U20 stint, tallying 13 points in seven games. Though his ice time has fluctuated with the senior team, the promotion itself is an encouraging sign of his progress. Meanwhile, forward Cam Squires, who impressed late last season in Utica, has been reassigned to the ECHL’s Adirondack Thunder. The move raised some eyebrows, but many believe it’s a short-term step aimed at ensuring consistent ice time.
In the OHL, goaltender Trenten Bennett continues to post elite numbers for Owen Sound, sitting at 3–0 with a 1.99 GAA and a .943 save percentage. Similarly, Mikhail Yegorov at Boston University is turning heads in the NCAA, holding a 2–0–1 record with a 1.95 GAA and a .933 save percentage. The strength and depth of the Devils’ goaltending pool across all levels underscore the organization’s long-term vision and stability in net.
From the college ranks to the AHL and international play, the Devils’ developmental system is thriving—providing the foundation for sustained success in the coming years. As the big club battles through its early-season schedule, New Jersey’s front office can take pride in knowing that the next wave of talent is already making an impact.
With the home opener set for October 16 against the Florida Panthers, the Devils return to Newark ready to showcase their depth, speed, and determination. The blend of NHL-tested veterans and a flourishing prospect system gives this organization a rare combination of present strength and future promise. For continuing coverage of the team’s journey throughout the 2025–26 season, visit Explore New Jersey’s Devils coverage.
