Summer may be sizzling across the Garden State, but the New Jersey Devils are already looking ice-cold sharp as they prep for what’s shaping up to be a pivotal 2025-26 season. After a frustrating early exit in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Devils’ front office wasted no time making moves, signing talent, reloading depth, and setting a tone that says one thing loud and clear: this team isn’t done yet.
From established stars to fresh faces and key offseason additions, there’s a lot for Devils fans to get excited about — and plenty to keep an eye on as the puck drop inches closer.
Core Stars Still Leading the Charge
At the heart of the Devils’ offensive game plan remains their captain and steady force, Nico Hischier, alongside the electric, all-world talent Jack Hughes, who continues to elevate his game to elite status. With Timo Meier adding power and finishing touch to the top six, New Jersey’s offensive identity is as dangerous and dynamic as ever.
These aren’t just stars on paper—they’re proven, motivated leaders who know what it takes to win in today’s NHL. And with another season of chemistry under their belts, expectations are climbing just as fast as ticket demand at the Prudential Center.
Defensive Core Anchored by Familiar Faces and New Rumblings
On the blue line, Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler continue to anchor the defensive corps, while Luke Hughes—one of the league’s most exciting young D-men—is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Newark. However, trade rumors have recently swirled around Hamilton, raising eyebrows as to whether New Jersey might be preparing to shuffle the defensive deck to free up cap space or acquire another impact player.
While no deal has materialized yet, the speculation underscores the Devils’ desire to evolve their roster for deep playoff runs, not just regular-season success.
Speaking of Luke Hughes—talks about a potential contract extension are heating up, as the organization clearly views him as a long-term cornerstone. Keeping Hughes locked up would be a statement move and a major step toward securing the future of the Devils’ blue line.
Key Offseason Moves: Depth, Experience, and Strategic Signings
General Manager Tom Fitzgerald addressed a glaring need this summer—depth scoring and two-way forward presence. The additions of Evgenii Dadonov and Connor Brown bring immediate experience and versatility to the middle six, with both veterans capable of sliding up or down the lineup as needed.
Dadonov adds creative offensive instincts and power play potential, while Brown is expected to be a reliable presence in penalty kill situations and high-intensity matchups.
The blueline also got a boost with the signing of Brett Pesce, a dependable, shutdown defenseman who can log big minutes and bring much-needed stability. It’s a signing that Devils fans have been asking for—Pesce fits the mold of a playoff-tested D-man who can thrive in tough situations and help protect leads in the third.
And in the crease, the Devils re-upped Jake Allen, a steady veteran backup who can handle a solid workload when called upon. With Allen re-signed and expected to support the development of younger netminders, the goaltending tandem looks reliable heading into the fall.
Also returning is Cody Glass, whose re-signing ensures additional depth down the middle, especially in the bottom-six center role.
Draft Recap: New Blood with Big Potential
The Devils made some intriguing selections in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, including Mason Moe and Ben Kevan, two young prospects who add size, speed, and skill to the team’s already impressive pipeline.
While they’re not expected to make the jump to the NHL just yet, both players will be closely watched in training camp and the AHL ranks this season. Moe brings a powerful two-way game, while Kevan is noted for his hockey IQ and ability to control pace—traits that align well with the Devils’ system.
The franchise continues to draft with purpose, keeping one eye on development while building a system that thrives on speed, puck possession, and offensive transition.
Preseason Schedule Announced: Rivalries, Road Tests, and Early Chemistry
The 2025-26 preseason schedule is officially out, and Devils fans have some exciting matchups to circle. The team will face a mix of Eastern Conference rivals, offering a preview of the battles to come. While results don’t count in the standings, these games are crucial for roster decisions, chemistry building, and determining which young players can crack the opening night lineup.
Information about specific game dates and tickets can be found on NHL.com, but make no mistake—the Devils’ preseason will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
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What’s Next for the Devils?
After showing flashes of brilliance in 2024-25 but ultimately falling short in the playoffs, the mission is clear: take the next step. With a roster full of young stars, key veterans, and promising prospects, the Devils are positioned to be not just playoff contenders—but legitimate challengers for the Eastern Conference crown.
The pieces are in place. The hunger is there. And the Garden State is ready.
Final Word: Believe in the Buzz
At Explore New Jersey, we don’t just follow the Devils—we live and breathe every shift, every breakout, and every goal celebration at the Rock. As the 2025-26 season approaches, New Jersey hockey fans have every reason to believe. This isn’t just a team on the rise—it’s a team ready to make noise, prove doubters wrong, and bring postseason hockey back to life in Newark.
Get ready, Devils fans. The next chapter is about to be written.
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