The buzz is building in Newark as the New Jersey Devils officially open training camp for the 2025-26 NHL season. Coming off a third-place finish in the Metropolitan Division last year with 91 points, the Devils enter camp with a talented roster, fresh trade chatter, and several pressing storylines that will shape the opening weeks of the season. With the regular season set to begin on October 9, excitement is high, but so are the questions surrounding the team’s depth and future.
One of the biggest concerns entering camp involves injuries to several players expected to play important roles. Forward Stefan Noesen re-aggravated a groin injury during summer training that required a procedure, and he is now expected to miss extended time. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who joined the Devils in a highly anticipated move, was absent from practice due to personal family matters but is not expected to miss significant playing time.
Two of the organization’s promising young players, Shane Lachance and Lenni Hämeenaho, were injured during the recent Prospects Challenge but managed to skate today, signaling progress in their recoveries. Defenseman Johnny Kovacevic, however, is dealing with a more serious issue. After undergoing knee surgery over the summer, Kovacevic is out indefinitely and is not expected to return before January 2026.
The biggest storyline off the ice is the ongoing contract standoff with restricted free agent defenseman Luke Hughes. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald confirmed that the Devils are still working to finalize a long-term deal for Hughes, who is viewed as a cornerstone piece of the franchise’s future alongside his brother, star center Jack Hughes. Fans are anxiously waiting for resolution, as Luke Hughes’ absence leaves a significant hole on the blue line.
Trade speculation continues to swirl as well, particularly around forwards Dawson Mercer and Ondrej Palat. Both names have surfaced in rumors as the Devils look to create cap space and potentially add a top-six forward to bolster their scoring depth. The front office has already made one notable move this offseason, sending veteran forward Erik Haula to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a 2025 fourth-round draft pick.
Another storyline generating buzz is the ongoing conversation about a potential Hughes brothers reunion in New Jersey. Jack Hughes has not been shy about expressing his desire to one day play alongside both of his brothers—Luke and Quinn. With Quinn Hughes currently captain of the Vancouver Canucks, speculation about all three playing together in Newark has fueled plenty of discussion among fans and analysts. For now, the Devils hold two of the three, but the possibility of bringing Quinn to New Jersey remains an intriguing long-term storyline.
On the development side, the Devils’ prospect pipeline is ranked 17th in the league. The future remains bright thanks to standout young defensemen Simon Nemec, Anton Silayev, and Seamus Casey, who headline a group of players that continue to impress at events like the Prospects Challenge. These prospects are expected to play a growing role in the coming years, supplementing the already strong core of Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier.
The team also announced its full 2025-26 regular-season schedule, with the home opener at Prudential Center set for October 9. Before that, fans will get their first look at the new-look Devils in preseason action when they face off against the New York Rangers on September 21 at home. The rivalry clash will provide an early test and a chance for new faces and prospects to showcase their skills in front of Devils fans.
With Nico Hischier leading as captain, Jack Hughes entering another season of superstardom, and young defensemen like Nemec looking to make an impact, the Devils have no shortage of storylines heading into training camp. Injuries, contract negotiations, and trade rumors are sure to dominate headlines, but there is also a strong sense of optimism that this roster has the depth and talent to contend in a competitive Metropolitan Division.
As the wait for the season opener continues, Devils fans are eager to see how these early camp developments unfold. For expanded coverage, schedules, player updates, and everything you need to follow your favorite team, visit New Jersey Devils.
