The 2025-26 NHL season is right around the corner, and the New Jersey Devils are preparing to hit the ice with one of the most talented lineups in the league. With major signings, roster adjustments, and one final preseason matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers, Devils fans have plenty to keep their eyes on as the team looks to build momentum heading into October.
Luke Hughes Locks In Long-Term with New Jersey
Perhaps the biggest headline of the week came with the announcement of a new deal for one of the team’s cornerstone defensemen. Luke Hughes has signed a seven-year extension worth $63 million, locking him into the Devils’ future at an annual cap hit of $9 million. For New Jersey, it’s a clear commitment to a blueliner who has quickly become an essential piece of the franchise’s core.
Hughes will not suit up for the preseason finale, instead focusing on being fully prepared for opening night. With this contract, the Devils have ensured stability on the back end for years to come, pairing Hughes alongside established leaders and emerging talent to solidify their defensive identity.
Devils and Senators Swap Enforcers
Just yesterday, the Devils announced a trade that caught many fans off guard. Forward Kurtis MacDermid was dealt to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for Zack MacEwen. While both players are known for their grit and toughness, this move carries financial implications as well.
MacEwen arrives with a cap-friendly contract, making the league minimum of $775,000, while MacDermid’s $1.15 million salary gave the Devils less flexibility. With New Jersey needing to balance their payroll following Hughes’ extension and account for injured players returning later in the season, the move creates a bit more breathing room under the cap.
On the ice, MacEwen brings a similar edge. He has been one of the more active fighters in the league over the last several years, racking up penalty minutes while contributing with depth scoring. Although MacDermid earned respect in New Jersey for his fighting ability and presence in rivalry games, MacEwen is no stranger to that role and could quickly become a fan favorite.
Final Preseason Game: Devils vs. Flyers
The Devils will wrap up their exhibition schedule today, October 4, with a matinee matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center. Puck drop is set for 12:30 p.m.
New Jersey enters with a 3-2-1 preseason record, while the Flyers sit at 2-4-0. Goaltender Jake Allen is expected to play the entire game, giving him a chance to sharpen his form before the regular season. Fans will also get their first look at rookies Jack Malone and Matyas Melovsky, who are set to make their preseason debuts.
Several regulars may sit out the contest as the coaching staff uses the opportunity to evaluate depth players and finalize decisions on roster cuts. These late auditions can prove critical for those hoping to earn call-ups later in the season when injuries inevitably arise.
Injury Report
The Devils continue to manage injuries as the regular season approaches. Defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic is out indefinitely with a knee injury, while forward Stefan Noesen remains sidelined with a groin issue. Brett Pesce, who left Thursday’s game against the Rangers with an undisclosed injury, will not play in today’s finale. His status for the start of the season has not yet been confirmed.
Building for More Than Just This Season
Beyond roster moves and game prep, the Devils have remained active in the community. This week, the team unveiled a refurbished ball hockey rink in Hoboken, continuing their commitment to grassroots hockey initiatives in New Jersey. Investments like these help strengthen connections between the organization and the state, ensuring hockey remains accessible for the next generation of players and fans.
With a strong core, smart roster management, and community outreach, the Devils are positioning themselves not just for short-term success but for a long run as one of the NHL’s premier franchises. For ongoing coverage, updates, and in-depth previews throughout the season, be sure to follow Explore New Jersey’s Devils coverage.
What to Expect as the Season Begins
As the final preseason game concludes, the focus shifts to opening night and the long grind of an 82-game schedule. The Devils boast a roster filled with dynamic scorers, mobile defensemen, and a blend of veterans and young talent. The addition of MacEwen provides toughness, while Hughes’ extension secures a cornerstone for years.
And last, due to injuries and players being held out for the final preseason game, the Devils’ lineup against the Flyers today, October 4, 2025, is primarily composed of players competing for bottom-six forward and bottom-pairing defensemen spots, along with some AHL-bound players.
Here’s the projected lineup for the New Jersey Devils against the Philadelphia Flyers, as reported by Yahoo Sports:
| Forwards | Defensemen | Goaltenders |
|---|---|---|
| Cotter – Glendening – Gritsyuk | Cholowski – Addison | Allen |
| Lachance – Rooney – Hämeenaho | Edwards – Strand | Romanov |
| Hardman – Malone – Parent | Vilen – Diotte | |
| Gruden – Melovsky – Legaré |
According to Yahoo Sports, Jack Malone and Matyas Melovsky will play their first preseason game today.
Injury notes
- Seamus Casey (lower body) is out.
- Johnathan Kovacevic (knee) is out indefinitely, and his timeline extends into 2026.
- Brett Pesce (undisclosed) is out for today’s game and is questionable for Opening Night on October 8.
- Stefan Noesen (groin) is not expected to return to action soon.
- Juho Lammikko (undisclosed) is also expected to be out for the near future.
- Luke Hughes is not expected to play in the preseason finale.
Expectations are high — and rightfully so. The Devils have built a team that looks ready to contend, and fans are eager to see if this season can bring them closer to a championship.
