The New Jersey Devils hit the ice for their second preseason game of the 2025-26 NHL season on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, facing off against the New York Islanders at the Prudential Center in Newark. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EDT, and fans are encouraged to check local listings or the Devils’ official channels for up-to-date broadcast information.
Following a 5-3 loss to the New York Rangers in the preseason opener, the Devils are looking to improve on both ends of the ice. The matchup against the Islanders provides a chance for training camp standouts to make a case for the opening-night roster, while the team as a whole refines defensive strategies and tests out line combinations.
Key Players and Roster Battles
Right winger Arseni Gritsyuk made a strong impression in his North American debut, tallying a goal and an assist against the Rangers. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can sustain that performance. Veteran forward Timo Meier also carries high expectations as he aims to secure a top-six forward role after a productive showing at the 2025 IIHF World Championship.
Training camp battles remain central to the preseason, giving prospects and players on the bubble an opportunity to demonstrate their value. Tonight’s lineup is expected to differ from the opening game, highlighting potential breakout stars and players eager to make a mark. Coach Sheldon Keefe will emphasize defensive consistency, smart puck management, and special teams efficiency as the Devils seek a bounce-back performance.
The New York Islanders, coming off a 3-2 preseason victory over the Flyers, will bring a mix of seasoned veterans and rising prospects. Their lineup promises to challenge the Devils while providing fans a glimpse of the depth and competitiveness shaping both teams heading into the regular season.
End of the “Jersey” Jersey Era
In other news, the Devils announced that the 2025-26 season will mark the final year of the black-and-white “Jersey” jersey. Introduced in 2021, the jersey drew mixed reactions initially but has since gained a fan base. With the retirement of this design, the team is preparing to unveil a new look for upcoming seasons, balancing nostalgia with modern branding. Many fans and players alike have welcomed the change, noting practical improvements in visibility on the ice and the potential for a refreshed aesthetic that better integrates the team’s iconic red, black, and white color scheme.
2025-26 Theme Nights and Special Events
The Devils also released their full slate of theme nights, community celebrations, and group events for the upcoming season, offering fans diverse experiences beyond standard game nights. Highlights include:
- October 22 vs. Minnesota Wild — Pride Night
- November 10 vs. New York Islanders — Military Appreciation Night
- November 29 vs. Philadelphia Flyers — Hockey Fights Cancer
- December 1 vs. Columbus Blue Jackets — People With Disabilities Night
- December 3 vs. Dallas Stars — Filipino Heritage Night
- December 11 vs. Tampa Bay Lightning — Jewish Community Night
- December 21 vs. Buffalo Sabres — Ukrainian Heritage Night
- January 3 vs. Utah Mammoth — Mascot Madness
- January 14 vs. Seattle Kraken — Faith and Family Night
- February 5 vs. New York Islanders — Black History Month Celebration
- March 29 vs. Chicago Blackhawks — Star Wars Night
- April 12 vs. Ottawa Senators — Jersey Appreciation Night
Additional giveaways are planned throughout the season, including collectible items such as Jack in the Box bobbleheads, Brett Pesce memorabilia, and NJ Devil lunch boxes. The Devils’ schedule demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, community engagement, and fan experience, ensuring there is a theme night to resonate with nearly every supporter.
As training camp progresses and the regular season approaches, fans can expect an exciting mix of emerging talent, veteran leadership, and community-focused events at the Prudential Center. For ongoing updates, including preseason results, player highlights, and detailed coverage of the Devils’ 2025-26 season, visit Explore New Jersey’s Devils page.
