The New Jersey Devils are entering the 2025–26 season with a mix of excitement, lingering questions, and plenty of competition within the roster. As training camp opens this week, the organization has already made headlines thanks to standout prospect performances, ongoing negotiations with a star defenseman, and speculation about the NHL return of a familiar face.
Prospect Pipeline Shines in Buffalo
The Devils recently wrapped up the annual Prospects Challenge at the LECOM Harborcenter in Buffalo, where their young talent delivered a strong showing. New Jersey finished the event with a 2-1-0 record, dominating the Columbus Blue Jackets in an 8-2 opening win, following up with a 4-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres, and closing with a narrow 6-4 loss to the Boston Bruins.
Among the standout performers was defenseman Seamus Casey, who served as an alternate captain. Casey impressed with his skating and two-way game, showcasing the kind of maturity that has the Devils confident he can compete for NHL minutes this season. He sat out the final game as a precaution ahead of training camp, but remains one of the organization’s brightest young stars and is eligible for the Calder Trophy race.
Forward Shane Lachance also made his mark. The power forward scored twice and added an assist in just two games, showing the physical presence and scoring ability that could earn him a roster spot or, at minimum, a call-up during the season. Like Casey, Lachance wore an “A” in Buffalo, underscoring his leadership qualities at just 21 years old.
Goaltender Jakub Málek had a strong North American debut, posting a .923 save percentage and giving the Devils a reason to be optimistic about their organizational depth in net. Other notable contributors included Nathan Lecompte, an undrafted camp invitee who scored twice and added an assist, and defenseman Mikael Diotte, who chipped in offensively while maintaining solid play in his own zone. Prospects Matyas Melovsky, Lenni Hämeenaho, Cam Squires, Ethan Edwards, and Tag Bertuzzi also had strong moments, showing the depth of young talent pushing for opportunities in Newark.
New Jersey Devils prospects Seamus Casey and Shane Lachance were among the top performers at the recent Prospects Challenge held in Buffalo.
Standout Devils prospects:
- Seamus Casey: Casey, a defenseman, showcased strong offensive and defensive skills. He served as an alternate captain and impressed with his skating and overall game, leading the Devils to have him sit out the final game to rest ahead of main training camp. Casey remains eligible for the Calder Trophy race this season.
- Shane Lachance: The large left-winger stood out with his physicality, scoring two goals and recording an assist in two games played during the challenge. Lachance also served as an alternate captain for the tournament. He is considered a strong candidate for a roster spot or a call-up this season.
- Jakub Málek: Málek, a goaltender, was described as spectacular in his North American debut, maintaining a 0.923 save percentage against strong competition.
- Nathan Lecompte: An undrafted camp invitee, Lecompte scored two goals and had three points in his two games and is making a case for a minor-league contract.
- Mikael Diotte: Diotte, a defenseman, was a surprise offensive presence, scoring two goals and assisting on another, while maintaining his strong defensive game.
Other players mentioned for strong showings or potential impact include Matyas Melovsky, Lenni Hämeenaho, Cam Squires, Ethan Edwards, and Tag Bertuzzi. Lecompte, Bertuzzi, and Brian Carrabes each had three points in the opening game.
Luke Hughes Contract Talks Continue
The biggest storyline away from the ice involves Luke Hughes, the Devils’ top young defenseman and a restricted free agent. Negotiations between Hughes and the front office remain ongoing, with reports suggesting the standoff centers on contract length. Hughes is believed to be seeking a five-year deal, while the Devils are aiming either for a bridge contract or a longer-term eight-year extension.
This negotiation is viewed as the organization’s top offseason priority, with the front office determined to find common ground before the regular season begins. The Devils remain hopeful, but there’s an understanding that camp — and potentially the season — could start without Hughes if a deal is not finalized.
Michael McLeod’s Potential NHL Return
Former Devil Michael McLeod, recently acquitted in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial stemming from 2018, is drawing interest from multiple NHL teams. While it is not yet clear if the Devils are among those interested, his name resurfacing in league circles has sparked speculation about where he could land. McLeod previously played a significant role as a defensive center and penalty killer during his time in New Jersey.
Nico Hischier Gains Recognition
On a more positive note, captain Nico Hischier continues to cement his place among the NHL’s elite. Following a career-best season with 35 goals and 69 points in 75 games, Hischier was named to the NHL Network’s Top 50 Players Right Now list. His consistency, leadership, and growing offensive impact make him a cornerstone for a Devils team that has Stanley Cup aspirations.
Training Camp and Preseason Outlook
The rest of the Devils’ roster reports to training camp on September 17, with several battles expected for depth spots. The strong showing by young players at the Prospects Challenge only adds intrigue, as the coaching staff evaluates which prospects are closest to NHL-ready.
Fans won’t have to wait long for live action. The Devils’ preseason schedule opens on Sunday, September 21, with a 1 p.m. home matchup against the New York Rangers at the Prudential Center. The team will play seven exhibition games in total, facing off against rivals including the Islanders, Senators, Capitals, Rangers, and Flyers.
The full preseason slate is as follows:
- Sept. 21: vs. NY Rangers, Prudential Center, 1 p.m.
- Sept. 23: vs. NY Islanders, Prudential Center, 7 p.m.
- Sept. 26: at NY Islanders, UBS Arena, 7 p.m.
- Sept. 28: at Ottawa Senators, Videotron Centre, 3 p.m.
- Sept. 28: vs. Washington Capitals, Prudential Center, 3 p.m.
- Oct. 2: at NY Rangers, Madison Square Garden, 7 p.m.
- Oct. 4: at Philadelphia Flyers, Wells Fargo Center, 3 p.m.
As the Devils prepare for another season of high expectations, all eyes remain on the Hughes contract negotiations and which prospects might push their way onto the roster. With Hischier leading the charge and young talent continuing to emerge, optimism remains high in Newark. For more updates, coverage, and in-depth features on the team, visit the New Jersey Devils section of Explore New Jersey.
