The New Jersey Devils are finding their stride early in the 2025–26 NHL season, stringing together three consecutive wins to climb near the top of the Metropolitan Division standings. Sitting at 3-1-0 as of October 18, 2025, the Devils trail only the undefeated Carolina Hurricanes and remain tied with the Washington Capitals in points, setting the tone for what could be another competitive year in Newark.
Thursday night’s home opener at the Prudential Center was exactly what fans were hoping for—a statement game. After falling behind 1-0 early to the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, the Devils stormed back to secure a 3-1 victory in front of a packed house. Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Nico Hischier all found the back of the net, with the energy inside “The Rock” matching the team’s on-ice intensity.
Timo Meier and Jesper Bratt have been leading the offensive charge, each posting five points through the opening four games. Meier’s three goals pace the team, and his physical presence has given New Jersey the edge it thrives on. Bratt, meanwhile, continues to be the creative spark the Devils rely on, feeding off the chemistry that’s quickly developing across the top six.
The team’s next challenge comes this afternoon when they host the Edmonton Oilers at 3:30 p.m. ET. Despite Connor McDavid’s slow start—he’s yet to score a goal this season—the Devils aren’t taking the matchup lightly. Edmonton remains one of the league’s most dangerous offensive teams, and a win today would further solidify New Jersey’s early momentum and home-ice confidence.
Injuries, however, have forced head coach Lindy Ruff to get creative with his lineup. The Devils are currently managing several key absences, including goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who’s expected to miss several weeks with a lower-body injury. Evgenii Dadonov (hand), Jonathan Kovacevic (knee), and Stefan Noesen (groin) are all sidelined, with multiple players also on injured reserve—among them Seamus Casey, Zack MacEwen, Marc McLaughlin, and Juho Lammikko.
Despite the setbacks, the team has embraced a “next man up” mentality, with younger players stepping into significant roles. Dawson Mercer, coming off a quieter season last year, has been off to an encouraging start, rediscovering the form that made him one of New Jersey’s most reliable two-way forwards. Rookie Arseny Gritsyuk has also impressed early, showcasing sharp instincts, quick skating, and an understanding of the game that’s well beyond his years.
Behind the scenes, Devils management remains active. Talks are reportedly ongoing for a potential long-term contract extension with Markstrom. The veteran goaltender, who quickly became a locker room favorite, is viewed as a key part of New Jersey’s goaltending stability moving forward. While nothing is finalized, both sides appear eager to find common ground on a deal that could keep Markstrom in red and black for the foreseeable future.
There’s also growing speculation around potential trade activity, with reports hinting that the Devils could be exploring a move for Buffalo Sabres star forward Tage Thompson. A deal of that magnitude would signal a bold push from general manager Tom Fitzgerald, further cementing New Jersey’s place among the league’s true contenders.
Off the ice, there’s plenty of buzz surrounding the Devils’ broadcasts this season. Former NHLers Mike Rupp and Cory Schneider have joined the MSG Network’s coverage team, bringing fresh perspective and insight to pre- and postgame analysis. The move adds a dynamic new layer to the team’s media presence—just another reflection of how much the Devils have grown as a franchise.
Through four games, the Devils’ mix of skill, speed, and relentless forechecking has made them one of the most entertaining teams to watch. Their confidence is growing with every shift, and with fan energy surging once again in Newark, there’s a renewed sense that something special is brewing in the Garden State.
For full updates, player spotlights, and breaking stories surrounding the team, visit Explore New Jersey’s dedicated Devils section.
As October rolls on, the Devils are proving that last season’s success was no fluke. Their core is stronger, their depth is deeper, and their belief is unmistakable—Jersey’s here, and they’re just getting started.
