With the possible return of Jonas Siegenthaler, the Devils hope to pull to within one game tonight. New Jersey Devils (0-2) at Carolina Hurricanes (2-0)
The Time: 8:00 PM EDT
The Broadcast:
National TV – TBS; Canada: SN360, TVAS 2; Streaming: MAX; Local TV – MSGSN, FanDuel Sports Network South; Digital Audio – The Devils Radio Network
Series Overview: Can the Devils Find Their Rhythm?
The New Jersey Devils find themselves in an all-too-familiar spot: down 0-2 in a playoff series. Their series against the Carolina Hurricanes has been a tough one so far, with Game 1 being a clear struggle and Game 2 showing some improvements but still falling short. For the Devils, Game 3 tonight in Newark is crucial. A loss would put them on the brink of elimination, and with the potential return of key players like Jonas Siegenthaler, this is the time for New Jersey to make their move.
In what has been a tough opening to this series, fans and analysts alike are looking for any sign of life from the Devils. They’ve shown flashes of their high-paced, skilled game, but inconsistency in both their offense and defense has prevented them from truly controlling the pace.
But tonight could be different.
The Possible Return of Jonas Siegenthaler: A Much-Needed Boost
While there are no changes to the Devils’ forward lines from Game 2—something I personally think should’ve been adjusted after struggling to score—there’s a glimmer of hope in the defensive department. Jonas Siegenthaler, who has been sidelined with an injury, is expected to return to the lineup for Game 3. This is huge for the Devils, who’ve been battling through injuries and inconsistency in their defensive corps.
In his absence, the Devils have struggled to maintain defensive stability, especially in transition and around the net. Siegenthaler, who typically plays on the third pairing with Simon Nemec, will look to provide a jolt to the Devils’ defense, which has been inconsistent at times. Nemec had a solid Game 2, and adding Siegenthaler back to the mix could give the Devils the defensive edge they need to contain Carolina’s high-powered attack.
However, while the return of Siegenthaler is a major positive, the Devils are still dealing with other key injuries. Brenden Dillon, whose status remains unclear, and Luke Hughes, who has been nursing an undisclosed injury, are both question marks for tonight’s game. Head coach Sheldon Keefe has yet to provide an update on Hughes, but if he’s able to play, it would be a significant boost. Dillon, on the other hand, has been almost invisible on the ice, leaving the Devils with a thin defensive corps if he can’t return.
The bottom line: Siegenthaler’s return could give the Devils the stability they need on the back end, but the team’s success tonight will depend on much more than just defense.
The Hurricanes: Playing with Confidence and Control
The Carolina Hurricanes are feeling good heading into Game 3, holding a 2-0 lead in the series. They’ve controlled much of the play so far, with strong performances from their top players and their depth. However, despite their commanding lead, head coach Rod Brind’Amour is reportedly concerned about his veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen. Andersen, who has been solid in the series, may struggle with the heavy workload, and there are whispers that he might be pulled if the Devils can generate a multi-goal lead. If that happens, expect backup goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov to get the call.
On the offensive side, Carolina’s captain, Jordan Staal, has credited the Devils’ defensive system for keeping his line under wraps in the first two games. Staal noted that New Jersey has been successful in limiting their offensive zone time, but it’s been a matter of keeping up that defensive intensity. Meanwhile, forward Jordan Martinook acknowledged that Carolina’s forecheck was too weak in Game 2, which allowed the Devils to generate a few too many opportunities in transition. For the Hurricanes, staying on the attack and tightening up defensively will be critical in Game 3.
Key to Devils’ Success: Getting the Multi-Goal Lead
The number one priority for the Devils tonight? Scoring early and taking control of the game.
In both Game 1 and Game 2, the Devils were playing catch-up for much of the contest. Against a team like Carolina, who has one of the most balanced rosters in the league, falling behind early is a dangerous game to play. The Devils need to get on the board first and, most importantly, keep the pressure on. A one-goal lead simply isn’t enough against the Hurricanes. New Jersey needs to maintain their speed and forecheck, putting as much pressure on Carolina’s defense as possible.
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who has been solid in net for Carolina with a .930 save percentage and a 2.52 goals-against average, has had a good series so far. However, he’s not unbeatable. If the Devils can get out to an early two-goal lead, it would take the pressure off and allow them to play their game with less tension. The key will be avoiding a slow start and making sure that Carolina doesn’t dictate the pace.
Lineup Changes: What Should the Devils Do?
One of the most talked-about decisions heading into Game 3 is whether or not the Devils should make changes to their forward lines. While the defensive corps has been hit hard by injuries, the forward group has struggled to generate consistent offense. Despite the lack of changes to the forward lines in practice, I’m calling for an adjustment—get Daniel Sprong back into the lineup.
Sprong has shown excellent chemistry with Cody Glass and Erik Haula, and the Devils need more scoring from their middle six. The bottom six has been good in terms of defense and energy, but they’re not producing enough to support the top line. Nathan Bastian and Tomas Tatar are both valuable in shutdown roles, but two shutdown wingers in the bottom six may be overkill. The Devils need scoring depth, and Sprong is a natural fit for a team that’s struggling to find the back of the net.
Final Thoughts: Will the Devils Find a Way to Bounce Back?
Game 3 tonight is pivotal for the Devils. With their backs against the wall and the potential return of Siegenthaler providing some much-needed hope, this is a chance for New Jersey to prove they can go toe-to-toe with one of the league’s top teams. The Devils can’t afford to be passive—they need to play aggressive, fast hockey, and they need to score early and often.
What do you think? Will the Devils bounce back in Game 3, or will the Hurricanes continue to roll? Share your thoughts and comments below, and thanks for reading.
Your Thoughts:
What adjustments do you want to see for the Devils tonight? Will they come through with a crucial Game 3 win, or is it too little, too late? Let us know what you think!