The New Jersey Devils made several roster changes and key announcements on October 8, 2025, as the team fine-tunes its lineup ahead of the highly anticipated 2025–26 NHL season. With final cuts, recalls, and contract decisions finalized, the Devils continue to shape a roster built around depth, physicality, and strong veteran leadership — all while keeping an eye on opening night against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Among the notable moves, forwards Shane Lachance and Lenni Hämeenaho were reassigned to the team’s AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets. Both young players impressed during training camp and preseason, but the organization wants them logging big minutes in Utica to continue their development. Hämeenaho, known for his offensive instincts and smooth skating, is expected to play a major role with the Comets, while Lachance’s physical style and net-front presence should make him a reliable contributor at the AHL level.
Meanwhile, forward Zach MacEwen has been recalled to the NHL roster. MacEwen, a gritty, hard-nosed winger, brings an edge that the Devils value — particularly on the fourth line. His physicality and forechecking ability could provide an important spark as the team begins its season-long grind.
Another headline move came as veteran center Luke Glendening officially signed a one-year, $775,000 contract after joining New Jersey on a professional tryout during training camp. The 34-year-old brings experience and reliability to the bottom six, excelling in faceoffs and penalty-killing situations. Last season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Glendening posted a 57% faceoff win rate and registered 105 hits in 77 games. His preseason with the Devils showed that he still has the legs and hockey sense to make an impact, contributing two points in six exhibition games. His addition adds depth down the middle and provides Head Coach Sheldon Keefe with a trusted veteran presence.
On the injury front, there was positive news for defenseman Brett Pesce, who returned to practice after missing several days with an undisclosed injury. Keefe noted that Pesce is expected to be ready for the season opener. The dependable blueliner had 17 points (3 goals, 14 assists) over 72 games last season and is projected to play a key defensive role on the right side. Pesce’s return will stabilize the Devils’ blue line, which remains somewhat depleted due to lingering injuries elsewhere on the roster.
Several players continue to work their way back from injury and remain on the injured reserve list, including Marc McLaughlin (undisclosed), Seamus Casey (lower body), Johnathan Kovacevic (knee), Stefan Noesen (groin), and Juho Lammikko (undisclosed). While none of these injuries are believed to be long-term setbacks, the Devils will rely on their depth in the early going as they await reinforcements.
Off the ice, the team also revealed its schedule for wearing their popular alternate third jerseys during the 2025–26 season — marking the final year these uniforms will be part of the Devils’ rotation. Fans will have 11 chances to see them hit the ice, including key matchups such as the November 24 game against the Detroit Red Wings and the November 26 showdown with the St. Louis Blues. These black alternate jerseys, introduced to strong fan reaction, have become a signature look over the past few seasons, but the team plans to retire them after this year in anticipation of a refreshed design in 2026.
As the Devils gear up for the start of the new season, excitement continues to build around a roster that blends emerging young talent with experienced veterans. The balance between development and competitiveness remains a central theme, and New Jersey’s moves this week demonstrate a clear focus on sustaining momentum while fine-tuning the team’s chemistry.
With key players returning to health, new additions ready to make an impact, and the fan base eager for puck drop, the Devils appear poised to take another step forward in their pursuit of Stanley Cup contention. To keep up with all things New Jersey Devils — including game schedules, roster updates, and coverage throughout the season — visit Explore New Jersey’s Devils page for ongoing news, insights, and highlights from the ice.
