The New Jersey Devils have kept fans buzzing as the offseason rolls on, with professional tryout (PTO) signings, contract negotiations, Hall of Fame celebrations, and the anticipation of training camp shaping headlines. After a 2024-25 season that saw the Devils finish third in the Metropolitan Division with a 42-33-7 record before falling to the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the playoffs, the team is working hard to prepare for another run at contention.
Player signings and tryouts
On September 5, the Devils announced a wave of professional tryout deals, bringing back some familiar faces while adding depth across the lineup. Forwards Kevin Rooney and Luke Glendening, along with goaltenders Georgi Romanov and Adam Scheel, were signed to PTOs ahead of training camp.
Rooney’s return is one of the more notable storylines. The veteran forward began his NHL career with the Devils and is now back competing for a roster spot in Newark. Glendening, who brings two-way reliability and penalty-killing experience after two years in Tampa Bay, will also be pushing for a depth role. For the goaltending group, Romanov and Scheel will join an already crowded crease. With Jacob Markstrom, Nico Daws, and Akira Schmid under contract, the competition for netminding duties will be fierce, but the PTO signings provide added insurance and flexibility for the organization.
Luke Hughes contract negotiations
Perhaps the biggest topic of conversation among Devils fans right now is the contract negotiation between the team and restricted free agent defenseman Luke Hughes. Reports indicate Hughes is seeking a five-year deal, while the Devils are weighing their options on term and structure. The standoff has created tension, as Hughes is widely seen as a cornerstone of the team’s defensive core and a long-term building block.
The outcome of these negotiations will not only shape the Devils’ blue line for years to come but also set the tone for how the organization manages its young talent. With his older brother Jack Hughes already the face of the franchise, many fans see Luke as an essential piece in solidifying the team’s identity.
Hall of Fame induction
The Devils community had cause for celebration earlier this month when two former standouts, Scott Gomez and Zach Parise, were announced as 2025 inductees into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. Both players left lasting marks on the organization. Gomez, who broke into the NHL with the Devils and was part of two Stanley Cup-winning teams, remains a fan favorite. Parise, known for his leadership and offensive contributions, served as Devils captain and helped lead the team to the 2012 Stanley Cup Final. Their induction serves as a reminder of the Devils’ deep history of producing impact players.
Arseni Gritsyuk adjusting to New Jersey
Another name generating excitement is Russian forward Arseni Gritsyuk. After signing with the Devils this offseason, the 23-year-old is preparing for his first NHL training camp. A skilled winger with strong offensive instincts, Gritsyuk previously played in the KHL and will now test himself against NHL competition. His adjustment to the American lifestyle and the smaller ice surface will be closely watched, but he has the potential to bring another layer of scoring depth to the Devils’ forward group.
Looking ahead: Prospects Challenge and new season
Fans won’t have to wait long for their first glimpse at the Devils’ future talent. The schedule for the 2025 Prospects Challenge has been released, giving supporters a chance to evaluate the next generation of Devils players before the main camp begins.
The anticipation for the 2025-26 regular season is already building. With a recently announced schedule, the Devils know their path forward as they aim to build on last year’s 91-point campaign. Oddsmakers have given New Jersey favorable odds to contend for the 2026 Stanley Cup, a reflection of the team’s young core and growing confidence.
Team leaders from 2024-25
Last season, captain Nico Hischier led the team with 35 goals, while Jesper Bratt continued his breakout trajectory with 67 assists and 88 points, cementing his status as one of the Devils’ most dynamic offensive weapons. Jack Hughes posted a team-best +12 rating despite battling through injuries, and Johnathan Kovacevic racked up 72 penalty minutes, bringing grit to the defensive corps. In net, Jacob Markstrom led the team with 26 wins, while Nico Daws impressed with a remarkable 1.60 goals-against average in limited action.
The Devils’ mix of veteran additions, rising stars, and young prospects creates plenty of intrigue heading into training camp. Whether it’s the outcome of Luke Hughes’ contract talks, the success of PTO signings, or the debut of players like Gritsyuk, there is no shortage of storylines for fans to follow.
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