Mount Laurel Animal Hospital has been accredited as a Level 1 facility by the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS). The certification program recognizes veterinary hospitals that meet and exceed rigorous standards for emergency and critical care.
As one of the largest animal hospitals on the East Coast, with a dedicated staff of over 400 employees, the Mount Laurel Animal Hospital provides an extensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical procedures, emergency care, and specialized treatments.
Krista McDermott (CVT, CVPM), practice manager at Mount Laurel Animal Hospital, expressed her pride in this achievement, stating, “Achieving VECCS Facility Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We strive every day to be cutting-edge in our approach to veterinary care, ensuring that we provide the best possible services to our patients and their families. This certification not only recognizes our commitment to excellence but also enhances our capability to serve our community better.”
The VECCS is a global professional organization made up of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and practice managers dedicated to advancing knowledge and upholding superior standards in veterinary emergency and critical care. The certification program encourages facilities to provide exceptional care, aiming to elevate the standard of veterinary medicine while increasing public and professional awareness of emergency and critical care services.
The certification brings numerous benefits to Mount Laurel Animal Hospital, including recognition in the Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. Additionally, the hospital will enjoy access to valuable resources such as counseling sessions for full-time staff members and subscriptions to clinical sites, enhancing the overall capabilities of the team.
The New Jersey Devils are back on the East Coast after taking on several West Coast teams on this six-game road trip. They closed out the trip close to home, traveling to the other side of the Hudson River to face off against the New York Rangers. Both teams were evenly matched, but it was the Rangers who managed to take it 3-2 in overtime.
The Second Line Dominated the Game
With Jack Hughes at center and Jesper Bratt on his right wing on the second line, the pair was almost unstoppable. The two put up the two goals the Devils scored, with Jack earning a multi-point night.
Four minutes into the first, Jack kicked off the scoring for the Devils. Ondrej Palat, the left winger on this line, had the puck near the goal but close to the boards. He passed to an available Brett Pesce who was down by the blue line. He let a rocket of a shot fly, where it found Jack in front of the net. He used his stick to tip the puck into the net to put the Devils on the board.
Jesper Bratt, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Jack was not done for the night. Palat had a chance at a goal, but the Rangers were able to get the rebound and start skating toward their goal zone. Dougie Hamilton laid out Will Cuylle, stealing the puck away from him. He passed to Jack, who then found Bratt alone on the other side of the ice. Once Bratt had control of the puck, he skated fast up to the net, dodging Rangers players who tried to block him. From the boards, he slowed down and took his shot, finding his mark in the back of the net.
The second line of Palat, Jack, and Bratt was exceptional during this game. The trio earned a total of four points, one point each and Jack got the extra. They usually play on the first line, but head coach Sheldon Keefe seemed to have switched this line and Timo Meier’s for the night. It’s time to bring this second line grouping back up to the top.
Close Game Overall
If it weren’t for Luke Hughes‘ goal being taken off the scoreboard, it would have been the Devils who came away with the win. Luke had a great chance, skating around the goal and taking a shot from the faceoff dot. It appeared to have gone in, but even the announcers seemed confused by this shot. The Rangers immediately called the play under review. After seeing the replay, it was made clear that the puck hit the crossbar and did not actually touch the back of the net.
In the end, it was the Rangers who came out on top and had the better chances. The home team had clear puck control, taking 32 shots compared to the Devils’ 23. It’s impressive that the Devils were able to make two goals come of these shots, but it was Igor Shesterkin who had the last laugh, blocking 21. Out of the three penalties the Devils took, the Rangers scored on two of their power plays. The extra man advantage was what put them on top to score their two regulation goals.
The Devils had decent plays and chances, but it was New York who capitalized on their chances more.
This Road Trip Didn’t Do the Devils Any Favors
Out of the six games on this road trip, the Devils only took home one win. Defeating the Seattle Kraken on Jan. 6 to close out the West Coast portion of the trip should have given the Devils more confidence going into Rangers territory. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
This six-game trip comes right after the holiday break, where the Devils have played seven games in total. The first one was at home, where they defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-2 on Dec. 27. Since then they have been on the road and not performing to the best of their ability. Luckily for them, in their next six games, they play five at home. This stretch is broken up in the middle by a trip to Toronto on Jan. 16. Hopefully some home-ice advantage works out for the Devils, so they can get back on track.
Home Sweet Home
The Devils look to pick themselves up again when they are back on home ice on Jan. 11, when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning.
(RUTHERFORD, NJ) — Comedian and veteran CONAN staff writer Laurie Kilmartin is headlining four shows at Bananas Comedy Club in Rutherford on Friday, January 24 and Saturday, January 25, 2025. Kilmartin’s comedy is famously dark.
Her 2024 stand-up special Cis Woke Grief Sl*t was named one of the best stand-up releases of the year by NPR’s Bullseye and was praised as “dark humor at its finest” (Paste) and “the bravest set of her career” (Minneapolis Star Tribune). The special is available on AppleTV, Amazon Prime and YouTube. In a January 2024 profile piece, the Los Angeles Times says that “Kilmartin has become one of the most fearless, respected performer-writers in the L.A. standup scene.”
Laurie Kilmartin is a comedian and an Emmy-nominated/WGA Award-winning writer for CONAN. She has also written for the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, The Late Late Show, and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn. She has performed standup on CONAN, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Comedy Central and Showtime. Her standup special 45 Jokes About My Dead Dad made Vulture’s list of Top Ten Comedy Specials of 2016. Major festival appearances include Just for Laughs, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Moontower Comedy Festival.
Laurie has written two books, Dead People Suck and the New York Times bestseller Sh*tty Mom. She and fellow comic Jackie Kashian host a popular podcast about standup comedy called The Jackie and Laurie Show. Her new album, Corset, was released at #1 on the iTunes charts. Laurie’s recent TV appearances include After Midnight (CBS), The Talk (CBS), Sherri (syndicated) and being interviewed by Hillary and Chelsea Clinton on Gutsy Women (AppleTV).
Performances take place Friday, January 24, 2025 at 7:00pm & 9:30pm and Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 7:00pm & 9:30pm. Tickets are available for purchase online. Bananas Comedy Club is located in the Renaissance Hotel (801 Rutherford Ave) in Rutherford, New Jersey.
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Bananas Comedy Club is a contemporary entertainment venue that bring stadium-sized talent to an intimate theater on a weekly basis. For a modest ticket price, patrons enjoy live standup comedy and other performance art from a nationally accredited act, no more than 60 feet away. Shows average 1 hour and forty minutes and comprise an opener, a feature, and a headliner with national entertainment credits. Bananas Comedy Club is a non-smoking facility. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of food and beverage, from perfectly-portioned appetizers to the hottest craft beers, as well as a full spread of entrees, desserts, and homespun cocktails in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere.
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Manhattan Comedy Night January
Saturday, January 11, 2025 @ 8:00pm Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) 100 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960 category: comedy
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Charlie Berens: Good Old Fashioned Tour
Friday, January 17, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: comedy
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Ben Bankas
Friday, January 24, 2025 @ 8:00pm Avenel Performing Arts Center 150 Avenel Street, Avenel, NJ 07001 category: comedy
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At 7:56, the action kicked off as the visitors drew the first goal of the night. Off a pass from Timo Meier, Nico Hischier took a shot at the net from in between the two faceoff circles. Phillipp Grubauer managed to save it, but Dawson Mercer grabbed the rebound and scored the first goal of the night. It took a little bit of time, but the Kraken were able to answer back eight minutes later. Andre Burakovsky made a shot attempt, but it was stopped by Jacob Markstrom. Adam Larsson got a hold of the saved puck, passing it up to Chandler Stephenson, who was up by the net. He did not have a clear shot, so he sent it down to Adam Larsson who was by the blue line. The former Devil skated up toward the bottom of the faceoff circle and took a shot, scoring the first goal of the night for the Kraken. As the period came to an end and the score tied 1-1, there was plenty of work to be done heading into the second.
Dawson Mercer, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
The second bout of 20 minutes was full of shot attempts. The Devils had 11 while the Kraken only had four. However, it was that last Devils’ shot that really sealed the deal. With only 25 seconds left, they got to work. Johnathan Kovacevic sent the puck down the ice where it was caught by Mercer. He then sent it to Paul Cotter, who was able to score for the Devils. The home team did not like that and immediately caused a disturbance. Jonas Siegenthaler was forced to take a seat for two minutes after cross-checking Jaden Schwartz. In defense of their team, Brandon Montour and Brett Pesce each got a five-minute major for fighting. Things were heating up heading into the third period.
It was that power play that came in handy for the Kraken, as they were able to score their second of the night on the extra man advantage. Jared McCann shot the puck from the blue line to Kappo Kakko, who was up by the goal. From his vantage point, he was able to see Shane Wright in front of the net. Kakko passed to him, where he was able to net the second goal of the night for the Kraken just 1:24 into the third period. Just 37 seconds later, the Devils answered back. Jesper Bratt was able to skate the puck out of the Kraken scoring zone, sending it to Dougie Hamilton in the neutral zone. He powered through to the Devils’ scoring zone, where he passed to Jack Hughes by the boards. He saw Ondrej Palat in the middle of the faceoff circle and passed to him. Shooting the puck through the two Kraken defensemen, he was able to send it to the back of the net and solidify the win for the Devils.
Next Games
The Devils head back to the East Coast with the cryptid cup. They will face off against the New York Rangers on Thursday, Jan. 9. The Kraken will also head to the East Coast, facing off against the Columbus Blue Jackets also on Jan. 9.
Two weeks ago, North American Van Lines’ 2024 Annual Migration Map ranked New Jersey fourth in the nation for outbound migration. This week, United Van Lines and U-Haul have reported similar findings, underscoring the fact that more people are leaving the Garden State than entering.
According to U-Haul Growth Index data analyzing one-way customer transactions during the past year, New Jersey is the No. 48 growth state of 2024. The Garden State inches back one spot from the 2023 ranking. Meanwhile, South Carolina climbs three spots to dethrone Texas as the No. 1 growth state.
U-Haul customers coming to New Jersey accounted for 48.1% of all one-way traffic last year while out-of-state departures was 51.9%.
Looking at year-over-year changes, U-Haul arrivals into New Jersey fell 1% while departures remained the same in 2024.
U-Haul ranks growth states according to each state’s net gain (or loss) of one-way equipment from customer transactions in a calendar year. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from more than 2.5 million one-way U-Haul truck, trailer and U-Box® portable moving container transactions that occur annually across the U.S. and Canada.
New Jersey’s notable leading growth markets include (in alphabetical order): Bridgeton, Bridgewater Township, Cherry Hill Township, Franklin Township, Glassboro, Jackson Township, Jersey City, Lakewood Township, Mount Laurel, Ocean Grove, Vineland, Wildwood and Williamstown. Bayonne, Bloomfield and Hamilton Township are break-even markets.
North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee round out the top five growth states for 2024. It’s the same top five from 2023, but in a slightly different order.
California ranks 50th for the fifth year in a row with the largest net loss of one-way U-Haul customers. Oklahoma (+30), Indiana (+19) and Maine (+18) are the biggest risers YOY, while Colorado (-31), Nevada (-24), Wyoming (-22) and New Mexico (-21) saw the biggest slides.
Meanwhile, United Van Lines’ 48th Annual National Movers Study reported that, for the seventh consecutive year, more residents moved out of New Jersey than any other state, with the state having a 67% outbound migration. The top motivations for moves out of New Jersey were driven primarily from those looking to retire (22%) and wanting to be closer to family (20%), with more than 40% of movers aged 65 and older. Of those moving from New Jersey, 20% moved to the sunshine state of Florida.
West Virginia was the state with the highest percentage of inbound migration (66%), among states experiencing more than 250 moves with United Van Lines. The Mountain State jumped nine spots on this year’s inbound list, compared to the 2023 National Movers Study.
North American Van Lines annual report, which uses state-by-state movement to highlight trends in population movements within the US, found that New Jersey experienced a 44% population inbound rate vs. a 56% outbound rate.
(NEW YORK, NY) — Blue Man Group, the international entertainment phenomenon known for its world-famous music and distinctively non-verbal forms of communication, will conclude its history-making residency in New York City next month. As part of the farewell celebration, Blue Man Group co-founders Chris Wink, Matt Goldman, and Phil Stanton will return to the stage as Blue Men for two special performances. They will perform at an additional show that has been added on January 9 at 4:00pm, and they will also perform during the January 24, 2025 performance at 8:00pm.
The final performance of Blue Man Group’s New York residency will be on February 2, 2025. Tickets to all performances are available now and can be purchased at www.Blueman.com.
For over 30 years, three bald and blue men took millions of people beyond any language barrier and introduced a new imaginative art form through music, comedy, and unexpected elements of surprise to tell the universal story of what it means to be human. The truly euphoric expression of shared humanity became a cultural icon because of the vibrant theatre community in New York, and their overwhelming support for the Blue Men’s unique eccentricities.
“I am honored and humbled to be part of the historic evolution of Blue Man Group, which started in New York back in 1991, and so it is with deepest gratitude to announce the final performances in New York,” said Jack Kenn, Managing Director of Blue Man Group. “Blue Man Group is unlike anything else in the world and is undeniably one of the most recognized and successful entertainment productions because of the hardworking cast, crew and creative team. It was because of them that these shows captured millions of hearts night after night, and we give our utmost thanks.”
Blue Man Group is committed to its unique theatrical spectacles in the United States with performances in Boston (entering its 30th year), Las Vegas (entering its 25th year), and its newest remount in Orlando (opening early April 2025). Audiences in current cities can expect even more fun-filled surprises and innovations from the renowned performance ensemble. To stay up to date on the latest news and to purchase tickets, please visit Blueman.com.
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Blue Man Group is a global entertainment phenomenon, known for its award-winning theatrical productions, iconic characters and multiple creative explorations. Blue Man Group performances are euphoric celebrations of human connection through art, music, comedy and non-verbal communication. Since debuting at New York’s Astor Place Theatre in 1991, the live show has expanded to additional domestic residencies in Boston, Chicago, and Las Vegas, an international residency in Berlin, and multiple North American and World tours, reaching more than 50 million people worldwide. Blue Man Group is universally appealing to a broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds, and continually injected with new music, fresh stories, custom instruments and sensory-stimulating graphics. Blue Man Group is owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group.
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Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
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Vivid Stage presents “Gemstones” by Phoebe Farber
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 2:00pm Oakes Center 120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901 category: theatre
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Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Thursday, January 09, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
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In February 2023, the New Jersey Devils were looking to bolster their roster, poised to make the postseason for the first time since 2017-18. Led by now-established stars Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt, the team needed secondary scoring to guarantee their spot in the playoffs and finally make the jump from pretender to contender. They needed a bonafide star, someone who would make a difference. Enter: Timo Meier.
Timo Meier Shifts Dynamic
Nearing the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline, the Devils traded for coveted forward Timo Meier. Nearing a point-per-game pace with the San Jose Sharks that season, he was the perfect forward to place alongside Hughes on the first line. During the second half of the season, he produced 14 points in 21 games. In his first full season with the club, he produced 52 points in 69 games, while scoring almost 30 goals.
The Devils have not seen production like this from a forward since the likes of Ilya Kovalchuk, and Zach Parise, and recently former Devils Kyle Palmieri and Taylor Hall. Consistently finding the scoresheet was what each player brought to the team, despite losing seasons in the past. When those players left, the team struggled to find a forward who could replace the production and physical play that each of them displayed. Meier has revived that role, and stepped into it quite nicely. Bringing in a player like Meier’s caliber has been the missing puzzle piece that the team has needed for years, and have found in Meier.
Timo Meier, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
During his 10-year career, Meier has always been the prototypical power forward. With a knack for scoring goals, he had tallied over 20 in each full season with the Sharks. He strengthened the Devils’ roster and pushed them into the 2023 Playoffs, where they saw success against their rival New York Rangers in the first round before losing to the Carolina Hurricanes in the second.
A Step in the Right Direction
In the 2024-25 season, Meier is poised to hit close to 30 goals for a second time. Last month alone, he had eight points in 12 games, including five goals. In this recent stretch of solid play, he hit a milestone, scoring the 200th goal of his career – the eventual game-winner against the Seattle Kraken in a 3-2 victory on Dec. 6.
“When you grow up in Switzerland and your dream is to play in the NHL,” Meier told The Hockey News.“Time flies by, and the next thing you know, you score 200 goals. You reflect on that and realizing how nice it is to be in this position.”
Meier has found success playing alongside fellow countryman Nico Hischier and Stefan Noesen. They have been the team’s second-best line behind Hughes’ line. Since the game against the Kraken, the trio has put up a combined 12 points in five games.
Maintaining a High Performance Level
As the Devils push on in the new year, Meier looks to continue his scoring success in the second half of the season. If he can keep pace, it would be a huge boost for a team that has lacked secondary scoring behind Hughes and Hischier. By pairing up Meier and Hischier,the team sees two of its most dynamic players work alongside each other and give the team some much-needed depth that they have been looking for all season. With the hopeful scoring increase, the Devils will be poised to remain in the conversation as contenders, and propel themselves as real threats come playoff time. The key for Meier and the Devils is to keep pushing to hold their position at the top of the Metropolitan Division standings. If they keep pace, the sky’s the limit for the club.
Right off the bat, the excitement began. Jonas Siegenthaler had to sit for two minutes after high-sticking Tyler Toffoli 26 seconds into the game. Play continued afterwards, with not a lot happening until the 15-minute mark. It was Brendan Dillon’s turn to sit, this time for hooking Macklin Celebrini. The Sharks were not able to score with the extra man advantage. They did, however, score immediately after the Devils got back to full strength. William Eklund was driving the puck up toward the net when he was thwarted by two Devils players. Luke Kunin got a hold of the puck, passing it back up to Eklund. He spotted Nikolai Kovalenko and passed it to him. With a great wrist shot, he scored his first goal as a Shark.
The second period kicked off with the Sharks earning their first penalty of the game.Celebrini was called for high-sticking Dillon. With the Devils on an extra man advantage, they made the most of it. Birthday boy Nico Hischier scored to put the Devils on the scoreboard. Jesper Bratt sent a pass to Jack Hughes from the blue line. From here, Hughes saw Hischier up in front of the net and passed to him where he was able to send the puck into the back of the net. Not a bad way to spend a birthday. With the score tied at 1-1, the pressure was on for both teams.
Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Not even two minutes into the third, the Sharks were able to break the tie. From the Devils scoring zone, Colin Graf got possession of the puck and sent it up towards his team’s zone. Will Smith got a hold of it and skated up from the neutral zone with Celebrini. With an excellent pass from Smith to Celebrini, the rookie was able to score his 13th goal of the season.
At the five-minute mark, the Devils tied it up once again. Luke Hughes skated the puck around Jacob Markstrom, circling him like a shark. He passed the puck up to Paul Cotter at the blue line, who skated up toward the Devils’ scoring zone. He juked out two of the Sharks defending him and got up to the net, where he was able to even the score. As the time began to wind down, it looked more and more like this game was heading to overtime. With 25 seconds left on the clock, the Sharks had other plans. Alex Wennberg had control of the puck up by the slot but did not find an opening. He passed the puck to Cody Ceci at the blue line. With a slapshot, he sent the puck into the back of the net, saving both teams from overtime.
Next Games
The Sharks look to continue their momentum when they host the Vegas Golden Knights on Jan. 7. The Devils look to break their losing streak when they play the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on Jan. 6.
The New Jersey Devils take on the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center today. Here are the projected/expected lineups sourced from NHL.com staff writers, independent correspondents, and others.
Ondrej Palat — Jack Hughes — Jesper Bratt Timo Meier — Nico Hischier — Stefan Noesen Paul Cotter — Erik Haula — Dawson Mercer Tomas Tatar — Curtis Lazar — Nathan Bastian
Brenden Dillon — Dougie Hamilton Jonas Siegenthaler — Johnathan Kovacevic Luke Hughes — Brett Pesce
Jacob Markstrom Jake Allen
Scratched: Nick DeSimone, Kurtis MacDermid, Justin Dowling
Injured: Santeri Hatakka (shoulder)
Status report
Neither team held a morning skate. … Markstrom was the first goalie off the ice during Devils practice on Friday.
Latest for THW:
Sharks projected lineup
William Eklund — Mikael Granlund — Fabian Zetterlund Collin Graf — Macklin Celebrini — Will Smith Klim Kostin — Alexander Wennberg — Tyler Toffoli Barclay Goodrow — Luke Kunin — Nikolai Kovalenko
Henry Thrun — Cody Ceci Mario Ferraro — Timothy Liljegren Marc-Edouard Vlasic — Jan Rutta
Eklund (upper body) could return to the Sharks lineup after missing the past four games. He was a full participant during Sharks practice on Friday. … Granlund, Wennberg, and Ceci didn’t practice on Friday but should be available to play, according to Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky. … Sturm (lower body) is a game-time decision.
MORRISTOWN – Jon Bramnick was there – which is really the goal when you are running for governor. Just be seen by a hundred or so active Republicans.
Not only that, Bramnick had a role in the proceedings; he administered the oath of office to Tayfun Selen, the 2025 director of the Morris County Board of Commissioners.
This was at the board’s Friday reorganization meeting.
These “reorgs” are a big deal for elected officials and their supporters.
There are the formalities of officials elected last November being sworn-in, speeches looking ahead and the appointments to various boards and positions. And sometimes, as was the case here, a nice, post-meeting food spread featuring shrimp and beef Wellington.
“Pomp and circumstance” to be sure, as Commissioner Stephen Shaw noted.
Shaw was sworn-in to a new term on the board, as were Deborah Smith and John Krickus. Likewise for Surrogate Heather Darling, who was reelected.
It’s common for candidates and like-minded souls to make as many of these events as possible.
Bramnick talked about maybe going down to Gloucester County after leaving Morris. That’s a long ride, but when you want to be governor, you can’t worry about that.
In the same vein, Democrat Josh Gottheimer sent out a release highlighting his attendance at Teaneck’s reorganization, where he swore in some members. He wants to be governor too.
Phil and Tammy Murphy are not running for anything – one presumes – but a check of their public schedule shows them popping up at reorg meetings in Somerset County, Bergen County and elsewhere around the state.
During these meetings, It is common for officials – county commissioners in this case – to speak at length about the virtues of their domain. That is quite common in Morris, where the rule of thumb is that the county is not merely the best in New Jersey, but one of the best in the nation.
Republican commissioners never tire of quoting Murphy, who said that Morris County “runs like a top.” That was when the governor visited a Covid vaccination site.
Shaw, however, was a bit philosophical about all this, noting that Morris has been around a long time. It, in fact, predates the United States, having been founded in 1738.
He said credit for many of the attributes the county has – a great park system, good services, a collection of appealing communities – must go to the hundreds of those who served the county before the current crop of commissioners. It was a worthy acknowledgement.
There was another meaningful moment.
As a body, the Morris commissioners have been strong supporters of Ukraine and Israel after the Russian and Hamas attacks respectively. They have attended many services at temples and Ukrainian churches.
The Russian invasion was in 2022 and the Hamas attack in 2023.
Time moves on and memories fade, which was something newly re-elected Smith addressed.
After stressing the board’s collective support for Ukraine and Israel, she said:
“It is deeply troubling to witness the growing apathy toward these struggles and the rise of anti-Semitic statements, often amplified by misinformation and ignorance.”
New Year’s Eve in Downtown Morristown Features More Than 70 Performances
First Night Morris County 2025 on December 31st is the biggest and brightest New Year’s Eve celebration in New Jersey, providing a magnificent, family-friendly, substance and alcohol-free celebration in the heart of Morristown.
This year’s program features more than 70 performances at 23 venues located throughout downtown Morristown, with live stream and on-demand access. More than 30 films will be presented at the Film Festival, and there will be complimentary parking as well as shuttles starting at 4:30 PM.
It is all for an affordable admission price: $30 for individual tickets or $23.75 each in a Family 4-Pack ($95).
Tickets (Buttons) are available for purchase prior to the event, in-person or by phone through the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) Box Office by visiting FirstNightMorris.org/Purchase or at one of three purchase locations during the event.
New to First Night Morris County is a historical programming element in honor of the upcoming 250th Anniversary celebration of America’s independence. Attendees will enjoy guided tours as they go back in time to the Revolutionary days and meet famous historical figures who were regulars, such as Alexander Hamilton, Elizabeth Schuler and Morristown’s first doctor, Jabez Campbell. Learn how they lived by visiting the famed Schuyler Hamilton House located on Olyphant Place, where you also will discover more about the encampments of General George Washington and the Continental Army, the growth of Morristown and the growth of our country.
“Our 250th is a great opportunity for our county. We invite everyone who wants to learn about the American Revolution to visit, explore, enjoy and learn how Morris Coounty played a major role in establishing the best country the world,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers.
New offerings include Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, singer/songwriter Megan Chappius and Gabrile Gonzales, and New Jersey favorite Grover Kemble with vocalist/guitarist Bob Marks. At MPAC, catch The Outcrops, a quartet led by lead singer Cassidy Rain and lead guitarist Bryan Schroeder, and stay for The B-Street Band, the longest running Bruce Springsteen tribute band. The group has been a favorite in the tristate region for more than four decades.
Another new site is Macculloch Hall which will feature three venues including a Thomas Nast Exhibit, a Children’s Seasonal Craft Activity and The Dolce Trio, celebrating their 30th anniversary as they perform music of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Our own Dr. Lynn Siebert will play violin joined by flutist/recorder player Kris Lamb and cellist Loni Bach.
ABOUT FIRST NIGHT MORRIS COUNTY
First Night Morris County, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, seeks to foster the public’s appreciation of visual and performing arts through an innovative, diverse, and high-quality New Year’s Eve program which offers a shared cultural experience that is accessible and affordable to all. The program began in 1992 and is the largest First Night in New Jersey, attracting some 10,000 participants each year. For ticket information, go to www.firstnightmorris.org.
The North Brunswick Train Station is advancing under the management of Middlesex County Improvement Authority (MCIA) with a recent announcement of 30% design approval and funding agreement with NJ TRANSIT for the final design phase of the project.
The project now is moving towards 60% design completion with the construction drawings covering items such as passenger platform, the overhead pedestrian bridges, foundation elements, steel connections, methods of structural support and DEP approval process.
“These milestones are important as the design phase now moves from the conceptual stage to actual construction drawings,” Executive Director James Polos, said. “We are eagerly completing the necessary foundational work to move full steam ahead with construction of the new train station in the very near future.”
Under a unique partnership established in 2020 with NJ TRANSIT, the MCIA is managing the North Brunswick Train Station project. The agreement permits the MCIA to serve as the project manager overseeing the design and construction of the project. Under the agreement, the MCIA coordinates input from NJ TRANSIT, AMTRAK, New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), the township of North Brunswick, and Middlesex County.
“The MCIA has streamlined what is normally a cumbersome process,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios, said. “Collaboration amongst all agencies through regular design team meetings has been a major benefit in moving this project forward expeditiously.”
“The North Brunswick Train Station is a vital component of Middlesex County’s Destination 2040 strategic economic plan which will make Middlesex County a thriving, attractive destination to live, work, and play for generations to come,” Chairman of the MCIA James Nolan, said. “Additionally, we expect the station to help manage traffic congestion along the Route 1 corridor and provide a more sustainable way to travel and commute.”
Funding for the project has been provided by the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund (NJTTF) in the amount of $50 million. WSP USA is the contracted design and engineering firm managed by MCIA. The MCIA will also manage the design and construction of the New Brunswick Train Station renovations performed by AECOM.
BRADLEY BEACH — The newly installed Bradley Beach mayor and council promptly appointed ex-Belmar mayor Matthew Doherty as acting business administrator at their New Year’s Day reorganization meeting.
Prior to voting on a resolution that appointed Doherty, a Belmar resident, the council unanimously voted to terminate former councilwoman-turned-administrator Meredith DeMarco by resolution. The language in the resolution clearly explained that DeMarco’s appointment by former mayor Larry Fox was viewed as controversial by current Mayor Al Gubitosi and members of the council.
“Mayor Fox unilaterally issued an employment agreement to Meredith DeMarco, as acting business administrator… for 90 day appointments which was not ratified by the then-Governing Body,” the resolution states.
The resolution terminating DeMarco from the position lists five reasons justifying the termination of the former administrator, ultimately declaring her appointments by the former mayor as “null and void.”
The terminating resolution disputes Fox’s “statutory authority” to make a recurring appointment. Additionally, the resolution states that Fox’s most recent 90 day appointment of DeMarco came on Dec. 23, 2024 and that her position was terminated in conjunction with Fox’s term.
According to the resolution appointing Doherty, he will be paid a salary based on the annual rate of $150,000 prorated for his term of employment. The ex-Belmar mayor has been appointed in the same capacity as DeMarco, not to exceed 90 days unless reappointed by the mayor and council. His term will expire on March 31.
For more on this story, read the next edition of The Coast Star—on newsstands Thursday or online in our e-Edition.
Check out our other Bradley Beach stories, updated daily. And remember to pick up a copy of The Coast Star—on newsstands Thursday or online in our e-Edition.
RCE Associate Director Kathleen Howell. Courtesy of Rutgers University.
Kathleen Howell, associate director, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, was one of more than 40 employees honored with Presidential Employee Excellence Recognition Awards in December at the Rutgers Club. The awards recognized both individuals and teams for their service to students and employees, for their role in cultivating a beloved community, for making a lasting difference beyond the university’s borders and for excellence in their work.
Howell was recognized with a Rutgers Gateway Award, which recognizes staff, faculty or a team of employees who go to exceptional lengths to remove barriers to build a more positive work environment, improve employee engagement and morale and create operational efficiencies through forward-thinking process improvements.
Since taking on her leadership role with the Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) in 2015, Howell was celebrated her efforts that “have positively shaped tens of thousands of New Jerseyans’ experience with Rutgers in their own communities.”
Well regarded for her compassion and ability to understand the complexities shaping people’s lives, Howell addresses all matters amicably. She has strengthened RCE programming by building strong academic/community partnerships, a remarkable volunteer base, and a growing number of engaged faculty and staff, while fostering collaboration between all three to best meet the needs of underserved communities across New Jersey.
Howell’s Rutgers Gateway Award, under the Service to Employees category, honor recipients who recognize the value of a diverse workforce and encourage cross-departmental teamwork to address shared challenges and improve workplace culture.
The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) awarded over $2.7 million in grant funding to 11 New Jersey startups under Round Two of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Grant Program. The funding will support pilot demonstration projects from startup companies creating technologies that mitigate the emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
“The innovative ideas of New Jersey entrepreneurs are essential to helping the state achieve its clean energy goals,” said CSIT Executive Director Judith Sheft. “Awardees under Round Two of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Program are developing technologies that will address the carbon footprint of concrete, divert packaging waste from landfills, and the infrastructure needed to support the transition to electric vehicles, exemplifying New Jersey’s standing as a hub of innovation.”
According to New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “New Jersey’s startup companies are at the forefront of creative and transformative technologies that will move New Jersey closer to its goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2035.”
In 2023, the NJEDA awarded more than $3.6 million to 14 startup companies under Round One of the pilot program. Combined, both rounds have awarded over $5 million to support demonstration projects conducted by innovative New Jersey companies, accelerating the commercialization and deployment of clean energy technologies.
“Congratulations to the 11 grant awardees of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Grant Program,” said CSIT Chair and BioNJ President and CEO Debbie Hart. “CSIT is proud to support innovative startups that are advancing clean tech breakthroughs that have the potential and promise to become environment-altering, commercially viable solutions — a testament to the extraordinary innovation emerging from New Jersey.”
Funding for Round 2 of the Pilot Clean Tech Demonstration Program is provided through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NJEDA and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) to support early-stage, New Jersey-based clean tech companies.
“The NJBPU is excited to partner with our sister state agencies to support New Jersey-based clean energy start-ups through the Clean Tech Pilot Demonstration Grant Program,” said NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy. “The Clean Tech Pilot Programs build on New Jersey’s long history of innovation by helping develop and deploy new technologies that can play an important role in mitigating the effects of climate change, benefiting us all in the future.”
A full list of awardees can be found below:
AIVacua LLC (Somerset County): Demonstrating an innovative spray flash distillation technology to be an integrated part of a cost-effective and scalable solution for use in water treatment.
Amatec Inc. (Essex County): Created an alternative material to cementitious concrete: high-density gypsum (HDG) concrete, which enables the company to eliminate the culprit behind concrete’s enormous carbon footprint.
Bezwada Biomedical (Somerset County): Demonstrating and testing the innovation of proprietary biodegradable polyurethanes developed by the company for use in packaging and consumer product applications to avoid greenhouse gas emissions by diverting the waste from landfills.
Cecilia Energy, Inc. (Essex County): Demonstrating a modular, microwave-based system that upcycles plastic waste into hydrogen and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), addressing plastic waste management.
Coulomb Technology, Inc. (Somerset County): Demonstrating a 5Ah zinc-ion battery for use in energy storage applications, which are safer, faster charging, and half the cost of incumbent Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.
EV Edison (Hudson County): Achieved full proof of concept for a mobile electric vehicle (EV) charging platform to deliver mobile EV charging to small, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, establishing EV charging sites “on-demand.”
InnoSepra LLC (Warren County): Demonstrating its biogas-upgrading technology at a wastewater treatment plant or landfill in New Jersey, which upgrades raw biogas to 92-98 percent purity methane.
NanoSepex Inc. (Middlesex County): Demonstrating innovative membrane technology and process for use in solvent recovery and recycling, biofuel refining, and treatment of aqueous waste streams containing low-concentration solvents and volatile organic compounds.
Pollux Technologies (Middlesex County): Developing a novel filter monitoring technology for use in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, which sends sensor data or post-processed soil parameters to a cloud server via a Wi-Fi or 5G cellular network with Internet of Things capability.
PureLi Inc. (Somerset County): Demonstrating an interfacial crystallization process with superior performance in extracting lithium from saline water sources compared to current commercial operations, improving the throughput by 60 to 80 times and doubling lithium selectivity.
PureNanoTech Inc. (Morris County): Demonstrating a next generation nanobubble technology designed to enhance wastewater treatment processes, improving efficiency and effectiveness.
The New Jersey Devils have been on a hot streak this season. Before the holiday break, their record stood at 21-11-3. Coming back from the break, they have played in four games so far; they’ve only won one. As the NHL reaches the halfway point of the season, this three-game loss streak New Jersey is on should not define their performance for the rest of the season.
Devils’ Heavy Travel Period
After a three-day break for the holidays, the Devils had a home game against the Carolina Hurricanes. They came out the gate swinging, defeating the visitors 4-2. After celebrating the high of the win, the Devils had to travel straight to Raleigh to face the Hurricanes once more this season. On the second half of a back-to-back, coming off the holiday break, the Devils were tired. They definitely played as if they were.
Carolina outshot them 41-23, which is not like the Devils at all. The Devils usually have more puck control than this. They usually take way more shots, not always finding the back of the net, but more shots nonetheless. When you compare the game the day prior, when they hosted the Hurricanes, the Devils outshot the visitors 31-23. They had better puck control and stronger defensive play when they were at home versus when they played the second game of the back-to-back.
Immediately after traveling to Carolina, the Devils had to head to California. With the loss weighing them down, the Devils had to get into a winning mindset for this West Coast road trip. Unfortunately, that mindset hasn’t hit them yet. Perhaps it’s the jet lag, but once again, the Devils looked tired out on the ice. Losing to both the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings, the Devils had some good chances, but they were on the receiving end of some negative calls.
On Jan. 1 when they faced the Kings, Timo Meier‘s goal was disallowed due to goaltender interference. Stefan Noesen was in front of the Kings goalie, Darcy Kuemper, who got his stick between Noesen’s legs and was “unable” to get it back into proper goaltending position. Although this goal would not have let the Devils win, it would have changed the end result to make sure the Devils did not get shut out.
The Devils will be continuing on this West Coast road trip, facing off against the San Jose Sharks and finally the Seattle Kraken. The Devils had three days between the Kings game and the Sharks game. Hopefully, they have adjusted to the time zone and will be back in fighting shape.
Not the Devils’ First 3-Game Loss Streak
The Devils had a four-game loss streak back in October, falling to the Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, Detroit Red Wings, and the New York Islanders. Since then, the Devils have not hit a losing streak higher than two consecutive games. This three-game loss streak is not like the Devils’ performance this season. However, fans should not fret.
Even with the loss streak, the Devils are still in high standings in the Eastern Conference. They are just beneath the Capitals. Washington has 53 points while the Devils have 51. New Jersey is currently three points ahead of the next team, which is the Hurricanes. The standings can always fluctuate, but what matters is that the Devils are high up on the chart. They have a very strong chance of clinching a playoff spot with how they have been performing. This little slump is not going to slow them down.
Devils Need to Start Markstrom
Two of the Devils’ three consecutive losses had Jake Allen in the net. While not completely the goaltender’s fault, there is a clear reason why Jacob Markstrom is the starting goalie for the Devils.
Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
It is not fair to Markstrom to start every game. He definitely needs a break sometimes. However, he has a save percentage of .912 out of 28 games while Allen has .901 in 13 games. Allen’s last five games he has played have been losses, while Markstrom has not had a loss since Dec. 10 when the Toronto Maple Leafs beat him in overtime. It is clear that the Devils earn more wins when they start Markstrom.
Everyone Has Rough Patches
While fans might be feeling low with the Devils’ performance as of late, there is still hope. The team has been performing exceptionally well this season. Everyone hits some low points. Unfortunately, the Devils are currently in this low period. Just like in life, there are always highs and lows in hockey. Despite the low at this point, there has to be a high peak right around the corner.
(HACKETTSTOWN, NJ) — Start the New Year with Centenary Stage Company’s Winter Thaw Music Festival. This year, the music festival will feature concert performances by Good Co., Judy Carmichael, TAKE3: Where Rock Meets Bach, and Gangstagrass throughout the next few weeks.
Kicking off Centenary Stage Company’s January Thaw Music Festival will be a performance from Good Co. on January 11, 2025 at 8:00pm. Seattle’s Good Co is the USA’s first Electro Swing band. Combining the sounds of 1920’s and 30’s jazz with the electronic music of today, Good Co, uses live horns, vintage samples, and funky beats to create a whole new type of dance party. Since 2013 Good Co has performed throughout the US, Canada, and Europe for music festivals, conventions, burlesque performances, and anywhere else they can sneak into.
Then, join Centenary Stage Company as Judy Carmichael takes to the stage on January 19 at 2:00pm. Grammy nominated pianist (and vocalist/radio host/humorist) Judy Carmichael is one of the world’s leading interpreters of stride piano and swing. Count Basie nicknamed her “Stride,” acknowledging the command with which she plays this technically and physically demanding jazz piano style. Judy has been featured on A Prairie Home Companion, NPR’s Morning Edition, Entertainment Tonight, CBS’ Sunday Morning, CNN’s Business Unusual, Mornings With Margaret Throsby for the Australia Broadcast Corporation, Jo Soares in Brazil and the BBC’s Loose Ends, In Tune, Up All Night, Woman’s Hour and numerous other shows. She created/produces/hosts, Judy Carmichael’s Jazz Inspired now in its 25 years on NPR stations across the country and podcasting on all platforms.
Following that will be TAKE3: Where Rock Meets Bach on January 26 at 2:00pm. TAKE3, brings the refinement of a rigorous classical music background and infuses it with rock-star charisma. With training at the World’s top conservatories, TAKE3, created by violinist/vocalist Lindsay Deutsch (Yanni’s featured violin soloist), alongside cello and piano, are creating pop/rock/classical fusion music for their show, Where Rock Meets Bach. Whether they are rockin’ the Bach or are classically infusing the hits of The Beatles, Bieber or Coldplay, TAKE3 have performed for audiences at venues and events including Music in the Mountains, Redlands Bowl, OK Mozart Festival, Festival Mozaic, Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill, and Bear Valley Music Festival.
Finally, Gangstagrass will close out the Winter Thaw Festival on February 1 at 8:00pm. Gangstagrass is a multi-racial collective of musicians who demolish every preconception you have about country and hip-hop music. These string pickers and MCs create a shared cultural space for dialogue and connection between folks that usually never intersect as Gangstagrass blends America’s rural and urban music traditions. Integrating banjo and fiddle with hip-hop beats and rapping may be something Gangstagrass does for the love of the music, but it has led them to face a history of racialized genres and deeply ingrained sense of cultural incompatibility.
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All Winter Thaw Music Festival performances will take place in the Sitnik Theatre of the Lackland Performing Arts Center located on the campus of Centenary University at 715 Grand Avenue, Hackettstown, NJ Ticket prices for the three concerts in January are $29.50 for adults and $15 for students of any age & children under 12. Gangstagrass tickets are $30.00 for all seats.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit centenarystageco.org or call the Centenary Stage Company box office at (908) 979-0900. The Centenary Stage Company box office is open Monday through Friday from 1:00-5:00 pm and two hours prior to performances. The box office is located in the Lackland Performing Arts Center on the campus of Centenary University at 715 Grand Ave. Hackettstown, NJ. Centenary Stage Company can also be found across social media platforms; Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter. Like and follow to receive the latest in CSC news and special offers.
The 2024-25 Season of Performing Arts events at the Centenary Stage Company is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and grantors like the NJ State Council on the Arts, the Shubert Foundation, the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the Sandra Kupperman Foundation, the John and Margaret Post Foundation, the CSC corporate sponsors, including Explore Warren, the House of the Good Shepherd, Hackettstown Medical Center Atlantic Health System, Heath Village, Visions Federal Credit Union, and Fulton Bank, and Centenary Stage Company members and supporters.
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The first period was a slow start for each team. The only moments of note were Paul Cotter earning a minor penalty for hooking Quinton Byfield and Anze Kopitar getting his first penalty of the season for holding Luke Hughes. The Devils took 15 shots on net while the Kings took eight. The Devils had better puck control throughout the first, but neither team was able to score on their chances.
With 6:23 on the clock in the second period, the Kings opened the scoring between the two teams. Jacob Moverare passed to Jordan Spence, who sent the puck up toward the neutral zone. Andre Lee grabbed hold of the puck and was able to skate ahead of the two Devils who flanked him. He got up to the goal and shot it into the back of the net to score the first goal of his NHL career. Six minutes later, Timo Meier was able to tie things up for the Devils. Unfortunately for them, the goal was disqualified due to goaltender interference. With each team just earning another two-minute penalty, there was still 20 more minutes of work to be done; it was still anyone’s game.
Quinton Byfield, Los Angeles Kings (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
Early into the third, the Devils went on their third power play of the night. Alex Turcotte was sent to the box after tripping L. Hughes. Once again, they were not able to benefit from the man advantage. Shortly after that, the Devils were able to get an extra man advantage. Cotter was sent to the box for roughing Brandt Clarke. In the middle of their man advantage, Byfield was called on his second penalty of the night for tripping Brett Pesce. With this call, it was time for some 4-on-4 hockey for a minute and 16 seconds. Despite a fantastic chance by the Kings towards the end of the 4-on-4, Jake Allen had other plans and made an excellent glove save. As the Devils’ 41 seconds of power play time came to an end, the Kings put another point up on the scoreboard. Mikey Anderson got ahold of the puck in the Devils zone and passed it up to the Kings zone where it was caught by Warren Foegle. Byfield shot up the ice towards the front of the net. Foegle passed to Byfield, who shot the puck and scored the second goal of the game for the Kings.
The Devils were already down two, so in an attempt to try and make a comeback, they pulled their goalie. The Kings were the only ones to benefit from this, though, scoring an empty net goal. L. Hughes whiffed a shot at the net, and Anderson was able to recover the missed shot. He passed to Foegle who in turn sent the puck over to Adrian Kempe. Kempe took a shot from the center of the ice and the puck hit its mark in the back of the empty goal. The Devils had another chance to make a comeback when Turcotte was sent to the box on a double minor for high-sticking Ondrej Palat. Despite this, it didn’t matter as the Devils were unable to score, even with a 6-on-4 advantage. The Kings reigned victorious in this Jan. 1 match.
Next Games
The Kings and the Devils each have a break and look to get back into fighting shape on Saturday, Jan. 4. The Devils look to break a three-game losing streak when they face off against the San Jose Sharks during this West Coast trip. The Kings look to keep up their momentum when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The New Jersey Devils begin 2025 with a New Year’s Day showdown against the Los Angeles Kings at the Crypto.com Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 6 p.m. ET. After a tough 3-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks the previous evening, the Devils are seeking to get back on track during the second game of their five-game road trip. New Jersey, which was playing some of its best hockey before the holiday break, has struggled to find its rhythm since returning to action.
Devils’ Key Players and Performance
Leading the charge for the Devils is Jesper Bratt, who has been outstanding this season with 33 assists and 47 points—both career highs. Alongside him, Jack Hughes is close behind with 46 points (15 goals and 31 assists), continuing to be a force on the ice. Captain Nico Hischier also stands out with a team-high 18 goals, and the Devils boast five players who have reached double digits in goals so far this season.
While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, their recent road trip has been rocky, losing their first two matchups. Goaltender Jake Allen, who is expected to start against the Kings, has a 5-6-1 record on the season, with a 2.89 goals-against average and .900 save percentage. New Jersey will need a strong performance from Allen to halt the skid and gain some momentum on the road.
Kings’ Recent Form and Leadership
The Kings, who are currently holding down the No. 2 spot in the Pacific Division behind the Vegas Golden Knights, are entering the game in solid form. They closed out 2024 with back-to-back victories over Edmonton (4-3 in overtime) and Philadelphia (5-4), adding to the momentum gained from a seven-game, 15-day road trip earlier in the month where they posted a 3-2-2 record.
Los Angeles is led by future Hall of Famer Anze Kopitar, who, at 37 years old, is still playing at an elite level. Kopitar leads the team with 27 assists and 39 points, showcasing his skill and leadership in his 19th NHL season. Adrian Kempe, with 17 goals, is the Kings’ top scorer, while goalies David Rittich and Darcy Kuemper have shared the crease. Kuemper has posted the stronger numbers on the season and may get the start against the Devils.
However, the Kings have been missing a major piece in defenseman Drew Doughty, who is recovering from a fractured ankle. While Doughty has begun skating again, he remains sidelined for now.
Who’s Hot
Devils: Forward Stefan Noesen has been on fire, already setting a career-high with 16 goals this season. Over the past seven games, he has notched three goals and two assists, continuing his strong campaign.
Kings: Quinton Byfield, the 22-year-old No. 2 overall pick from the 2020 NHL Draft, has been heating up with five goals and eight points in his last seven games. His two-goal, three-point performance, including an overtime winner against Edmonton, has showcased his growing confidence.
Injuries
Devils: The Devils are dealing with the absence of defenseman Nikita Hatakka, who is on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury.
Kings: The Kings are missing forwards Trevor Moore (upper body) and Brendan Leipsic (lower body), along with defenseman Drew Doughty (ankle), who has been sidelined all season.
Previous Matchup
The Devils and Kings met earlier in the season on December 12 in New Jersey, where the Devils earned a 3-1 victory. In that game, Jack Hughes was the standout performer with three points, including a game-winning third-period goal. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom was solid, stopping 13 of 14 shots, including an important penalty shot from the Kings’ Alex Turcotte.
Game Notes
This is the second and final meeting between the Devils and Kings this season, and the only game to take place in California.
The Kings have been dominant at home, winning seven consecutive games. They boast a stellar 12-2-1 record at Crypto.com Arena, making them a tough opponent on their home ice.
As the Devils look to turn their road trip around and the Kings aim to maintain their strong standing in the Pacific Division, this New Year’s Day contest promises to be an exciting and hard-fought battle. Will the Devils bounce back from their recent losses, or will the Kings extend their home dominance? Tune in to find out.
For the final game of 2024, the Anaheim Ducks and the New Jersey Devils faced off to ring in the new year. Although the Devils made an impressive comeback in the third period, it was the Ducks who would be victorious 3-2 on home ice.
Game Recap
At the halfway point, the action kicked off. Troy Terry kicked off the scoring for the Ducks. Ryan Strome received a pass from Frank Vatrano. Although the Devils tried to stop the puck from staying in the Ducks zone, Strome had other plans. He was able to get it across the wall and over to Terry. He was wide open in front of the net and was able to score the first goal of the night. Aside from the goal, the only other action was from penalties. The Ducks received three while the Devils only took one. Cutter Gauthier, Brett Leason, and Terry all saw two minutes in the box in the second half of the first period while only Brendan Dillon received a penalty for interference. The Devils took 15 shots on goal while the Ducks only took five. It was the Ducks shots that mattered more though, since they were able to actually score a goal in the first period.
Troy Terry, Anaheim Ducks (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
There were no goals scored in the second period, however, there were a handful of penalties taken. At 8:20, the Devils took two penalties while the Ducks took one. Nico Hischier took two penalties, one for hooking and one for holding, both against Alex Killorn. Kurtis MacDermid had to sit for one of the penalties, joining his teammate in the box. Killorn also took a penalty for elbowing Hischier. Surprisingly no goals were scored during these two minutes of 4-on-3 hockey. With the penalty killed, the Devils were back to being down a man after Jesper Bratt was called for tripping Strome. With less than two minutes left in the period, the Devils took another penalty after Curtis Lazar sent the puck over the glass and delayed the game. Ten penalty minutes earned and 17 total shots, with the Ducks taking 11 and the Devils six, there was still plenty of work to be done in the third period.
Just about four minutes into the third period, the Ducks were able to extend their lead. Brian Dumoulin took the puck away from the Devils zone. With a pass to Gauthier, he skated up the ice with Robby Fabbri. The pair only had Luke Hughes on them. Taking advantage of the 2-on-1, Gauthier passed the puck over to Fabbri through the legs of L. Hughes. Fabbri was able to take a shot and score the second of the night for the Ducks.
At 5:31, the Devils were finally able to get on the board. Jackson LaCombe was attempting to get the puck out of the Devils’ zone. Jonas Siegenthaler grabbed a hold of it before anyone on the Ducks was able to. He immediately took a shot and put the Devils on the board. Eight minutes later, the Devils tied it up. The Devils were able to get the puck out of the Ducks’ zone and make a breakaway towards the net. Stefan Noesen, Dougie Hamilton, and Timo Meier were passing back and forth to each other. With four Ducks on them, it made it difficult to score. Hamilton was able to find an opening and scored the second goal of the night for the Devils.
Immediately after the goal, some excitement broke out, earning each team another minor. Hischier was sent to the box again, this time for roughing Mason McTavish. McTavish also earned the same penalty after his reaction to Hischier. Although there was 4-on-4 hockey for two minutes, neither team was able to score. LaCombe received a pass from Vatrano at the blue line. He passed to Strome, who skated up to take a shot from the right faceoff circle, which found its mark at the back of the net. He was able to break the tie and put the Ducks in front to win their final game of the year.
Next Games
The Devils look to start 2025 on the right foot, facing off against the Los Angeles Kings on Jan. 1. The Ducks look to continue their win streak when they travel to Winnipeg to face off against the Jets on Jan. 2.
(NEWTON, NJ) — Carl Palmer brings Welcome Back My Friends – An Evening with Emerson Lake & Palmer to The Newton Theatre on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 7:00pm. This is not a tribute act – this is the real thing.
Created by Carl Palmer and his management, Welcome Back My Friends – An Evening with Emerson Lake & Palmer will be presented with the full cooperation of the Estates of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake. Through modern technology they will reunite the band: Palmer with his two bandmates, playing together along with Emerson and Lake, who both passed away in 2016. The show combines video performance of Emerson and Lake from a legendary sold out 1992 Royal Albert Hall ELP show, with live on stage performances of Palmer with his own ELP Legacy band, Paul Bielatowicz on guitar and Simon Fitzpatrick on bass and chapman stick. All the musicians play together in sync to present a complete and authentic ELP show.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer (informally known as ELP) was an English progressive rock supergroup formed in London in 1970. The band consisted of Keith Emerson (keyboards) of the Nice, Greg Lake of King Crimson (vocals, bass, guitar, producer), and Carl Palmer of Atomic Rooster (drums, percussion). With nine RIAA-certified gold record albums in the US and an estimated 48 million records sold worldwide, they are one of the most popular and commercially successful progressive rock groups of the 1970s, with a musical sound including adaptations of classical music with jazz and symphonic rock elements, dominated by Emerson’s flamboyant use of the Hammond organ, Moog synthesizer, and piano (although Lake wrote several acoustic songs for the group).
The band became prominent after performing at the Isle of Wight Festival in August 1970. In their first year, the group signed with E.G. Records (who distributed the band’s records through Island Records in the United Kingdom and Atlantic Records in North America) and released Emerson, Lake & Palmer (1970) and Tarkus (1971), both of which reached the UK top five. The band’s success continued with Pictures at an Exhibition (1971), Trilogy (1972), and Brain Salad Surgery (1973, released on ELP’s own Manticore Records label). After a three-year break, Emerson, Lake & Palmer released Works Volume 1 (1977) and Works Volume 2 (1977). After Love Beach (1978), the group disbanded in 1979.
Tickets range from $49-$79 and are available for purchase online starting Friday, January 3rd at 10:00am. The Newton Theatre is located at 234 Spring Street in Newton, New Jersey.
The band members played in various solo and partial reunion combinations during the 1980s. In 1991, the original trio re-formed and released two more albums, Black Moon (1992) and In the Hot Seat (1994), and toured between 1992 and 1998. Their final performance occurred in 2010 at the High Voltage Festival in London to commemorate the band’s 40th anniversary. Emerson and Lake died in 2016, leaving Palmer as the only surviving band member.
In 2022, Palmer and his manager developed and launched the show initially as THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER show, again with the full cooperation and involvement of both the Keith Emerson and Greg Lake estates. The show has been re-branded for 2025 as AN EVENING WITH EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER.
The Newton Theatre was founded in 1924. It is a beautifully restored 605 seat performing arts center in the heart of Sussex County, presenting diverse programming, including world-renowned music acts, comedians, family productions, holiday shows and much more.
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This Week in Theatre: Previews for Plays Taking Place December 31, 2024 to January 7, 2025
originally published: 12/31/2024
Here are previews of plays taking place from December 31, 2024 to January 7, 2025 including a look at productions currently being presented and those coming soon. New Jersey Stage covers Equity, community, college, and high school theatre. Check back every week for the weekly theatre preview. Click on the title to go to the full preview. Jump to Event Previews, Coming Soon.
Send press releases to info@newjerseystage.com to have your events previewed at New Jersey Stage. There is no cost for preview articles. Featured listings are found in the NJ Stage calendar, reserved for advertisers, and provided with individual event pages for every performance. Event pages are also available for $10 per event (multiple performances count as a single event). Event pages are also included with every banner ad purchase. Banner ads run from $50-$100 for a full month of coverage.
EVENT PREVIEWS
“ANNIE” returns to New York City for the First Time in a Decade (NEW YORK, NY) — Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment), Carolyn Rossi Copeland Productions, Inc. and Crossroads Live North America recently announced full casting for the limited engagement of iconic Tony Award-winning musical ANNIE at The Theater at Madison Square Garden which runs from December 4, 2024 through January 5, 2025. This run marks the return of ANNIE to New York City for the first time in a decade.
Luna Stage’s “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library” Gets A New 5 Week Run Off Broadway (NEW YORK, NY) — Congrats to Luna Stage! Due to critical acclaim and an incredible run of sold out performances at 59E59 Theaters, Luna Stage’s New York premiere of Jenny Lyn Bader’s Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library, directed by Ari Laura Kreith, is extending and moving to Off-Broadway’s WP Theater for a limited five-week engagement, December 10, 2024 – January 12, 2025.
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Playhouse 22 presents “American Son” – a Play that Raises Questions about Race, Parenting, and Justice (EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ) — Start off the new year with “American Son”, a drama by Christopher Demos-Brown and directed by Mimi B. Francis at Playhouse 22 that runs weekends from January 3-12, 2025. A play about an estranged bi-racial couple that must confront their feelings about race and bias after their son is detained by the local police following a traffic stop incident. Their disparate histories and backgrounds inform their assumptions as they try to find out what happened to their son.
COMING SOON
Next episode of “Gemstones” A Vivid Stage original series comes in January (SUMMIT, NJ) — Vivid Stage is celebrating its 30th Anniversary season, marking decades of bringing contemporary theatre to audiences in the state of New Jersey. Coming up is the third episode of the original series, Gemstones, by Phoebe Farber. The series blends the best storytelling qualities of mainstage performances with the exhilarating fun of improv. Episode 4 runs Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 2:00pm and Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 8:00pm.
American Theater Group’s Monday Night Play Reading Series presents “Mother’s Day” by Pandora Scooter (RAHWAY, NJ) — American Theater Group (ATG) will present the premiere reading of Pandora Scooter’s new 2-person drama Mother’s Day as part of its free Monday Night Play Reading Series on January 13, 2025 at Hamilton Stage in Rahway. The reading begins at 7:00pm.
George Street Playhouse presents “SMALL” (NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) — George Street Playhouse presents SMALL from January 14 through February 2, 2025. This is a Penguin Rep Theatre production written and performed by Robert Montano (The Steel Man), and directed by Jessi D. Hill (Daniel’s Husband). From the racetrack to the stage, Robert Montano shares his extraordinary true story of resilience and reinvention through the highs and lows of an unconventional life.
North Star Theater Company presents “Little Women” at Dover Little Theatre in January (DOVER, NJ) — North Star Theater Company invites audiences to experience the enduring charm of Little Women by Kate Hamill, adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. This heartfelt and dynamic production will run for two weekends, January 17-19, 2025 and January 24–26, 2025, at Dover Little Theatre.
Algonquin Arts Theatre Announces Casting and Creative Team for “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown” (MANASQUAN, NJ) — Algonquin Arts Theatre presents its January musical, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown from January 18-26, 2025. Rediscover the magic of childhood with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally and the rest of the gang. The musical brings to life the timeless stories that have captured the hearts of audiences for generations.
Paper Mill Playhouse presents “Mystic Pizza” – A New Musical based on the classic film (MILLBURN, NJ) — Paper Mill Playhouse presents Mystic Pizza – a new musical based on the 1988 movie which starred Julia Roberts – from January 29 through February 23, 2025. Mystic Pizza is a new musical about three working-class girls who navigate the complexities of life, love and family in a small-town pizza joint.
Murder Mystery Co. presents “Till Death Do Us Part: Murder Mystery Dessert Theater” at Brookdale PAC (LINCROFT, NJ) — Brookdale Community College is set to host an unforgettable evening of mystery, mayhem, and merriment as the Murder Mystery Co. presents Till Death Do Us Part: Murder Mystery Dessert Theater on February 7, 2025 at 8:00pm. This thrilling event invites guests to indulge in delightful desserts, sip coffee or tea, and immerse themselves in an intriguing whodunnit.
NJPAC presents Insidious “The Further You Fear” Reimagined as an Immersive Stage Show (NEWARK, NJ) — One of the most successful horror film franchises of all time is being reimagined as an immersive theatrical stage experience. Insidious: The Further You Fear comes to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 7:30pm.
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Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
View event page for full information
Vivid Stage presents “Gemstones” by Phoebe Farber
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 2:00pm Oakes Center 120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901 category: theatre
View event page for full information
Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Thursday, January 09, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
View event page for full information
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It wasn’t a linear path to success for Jacob Markstrom, who struggled to find his footing with the New Jersey Devils. Despite a shaky start, he’s rebounded very nicely to now become the sixth-best goalie in the league with plus-11.8 goals saved above expected (GSAx – via MoneyPuck).
His .914 save percentage (SV%) is ninth among 50 eligible goalies (min. 10 games played) and his 2.11 goals-against average (GAA) ranks second. He’s come up with some huge saves in key moments, most recently against the Carolina Hurricanes where he stopped 3.99 goals above expected, one of the best single-game marks for an NHL goalie this season.
In his last ten games, he’s 9-0-1 with a .933 SV% and 1.39 GAA. Timo Meier spoke to The Hockey Writers (THW) about Markstrom’s recent surge, “He’s been making key saves for us all season so far…Those saves at special times could help you a lot. We love playing in front of him. He’s playing unbelievable hockey right now, and it’s awesome.”
Earlier in the season, Markstrom told THW that his comfort level with the defense, in Keefe’s system, had been growing with each passing game. Based on the numbers, it’s hard to imagine he’s not fully comfortable now.
With how dominant the Devils’ defense has been this season, it’s sometimes hard for a goalie to stay locked in. Head coach Sheldon Keefe added, “You know, from a goalie’s perspective, I mean (as a team) keeping chances down are important, but keeping shots down is not ideal for a goalie. It doesn’t (give) you a lot of work, you don’t get a lot of those free and easy touches to get comfortable and confident in the game, and it starts to mess with your save percentage…all these things are challenging for a goaltender. But he’s dialed in. When we (made) some mistakes…he had to track the puck. He had to be good for us. I feel like it’s come for him.”
In this ten-game surge from Markstrom, the Devils have given up just 20.9 shots per game. Despite that, he’s still had to face 55 high-danger shots against, but he’s given up just four goals (via Natural Stat Trick). That’s a high-danger save percentage (HDSV%) of .927 – for contrast, the average goalie is around .800. In fact, for the whole season, Markstrom’s .881 HDSV% is tied for first among eligible goalies, alongside Joseph Woll of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
After Markstrom’s home win against the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday (Dec. 27), Luke Hughes added, “He’s been great for us. He’s very easy to play with and an awesome guy.”
Team captain Nico Hischier said, “He’s made some unbelievable saves. He’s been so good for us the whole year and he proved it again tonight…especially Grade A chances, Marky saved our asses tonight.”
It may have taken a little to settle in, but the numbers (and comments) show that Markstrom has been the number one goalie that Devils fans were dying for in seasons past.
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As the calendar is set to turn to 2025, there are plenty of things to have a look at for the future of each NHL team. While many have their resolutions, traditions, expectations, and more, there is one burning question that every NHL team is facing in the upcoming year.
Anaheim Ducks: What Happens With Zegras?
There have been plenty of rumors surrounding their young center, Trevor Zegras, for a while now. With some believing that Zegras isn’t fit for a team built by a manager like Pat Verbeek, and others believing they would be foolish for giving up on a player with so much potential, there is a lot of contemplating on what to do next.
On one hand, the young crop of players the Ducks have in their system, trading one away who could fetch a decent return isn’t the worst thing in the world. Everybody knows that Zegras has a ton of skill, and if he can put everything together, could lead the way for the forward group in Anaheim, helping them to get out of the rebuild.
The counterpoint would be that between injuries, his contractual hold-out, and his playstyle potentially not being a fit for the Ducks future, it could be a good time to move on. Time will tell where this ends up, but for now, he just needs to stay healthy and look to return to the 60+ points he has had before.
Boston Bruins: Can We Re-Gain Our Offensive Touch?
Through the first half of the 2024-25 season, the Boston Bruins have struggled to score goals. Of course, David Pastrnak is doing well, as expected, and Brad Marchand is doing alright for himself, too. Outside of them, 38 games into the season, the Bruins don’t have any other players who have reached 20 points yet.
To put that into perspective, the San Jose Sharks, who are in second-last in the league, have six players with over 20 points. Yes, the Bruins are doing fine in the standings and play a good defensive game as always, but the inability to score goals needs to be solved.
After signing Elias Lindholm, and moving forward with Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha as members of their core, the hope was that they could generate more offense than they have been, and that hasn’t been the case.
Buffalo Sabres: How Long Will Kevyn Adams Be In Control?
The Buffalo Sabres faced a lot of scrutiny over the offseason as they entered the summer with a lot of cap space, and didn’t do much with it. They bought out Jeff Skinner, acquired Ryan MacLeod and Beck Malenstyn, and signed Sam Lafferty, Nicolas Aube-Kubel, and Jason Zucker. A lot of fans were disappointed with the last of change to the roster, and while each of those players can be used well in certain roles, they aren’t solving any of the problems that the Sabres had.
General Manager Kevyn Adams of the Buffalo Sabres, 2020 NHL Draft (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)
Kevyn Adams has struggled to get the team over the hump, and after a recent 13-game skid, Sabres owner Terry Pegula addressed the team and said that the answer is inside the room, meaning a major move likely isn’t coming. Adams has had a long leash and hasn’t fixed the major issues that the Sabres have, so how long is long enough?
Calgary Flames: To Sell, or Not To Sell?
Getting caught in the murky middle of the NHL is one of the worst places to be. The Calgary Flames are in that area right now. They have too many good players to bottom out and earn a high draft pick, but aren’t good enough to push for the playoffs, and even if they do make the playoffs, they likely aren’t good enough to be a true threat.
Most fans are looking to see the Flames sell off assets and go for a high pick. There are a lot of stipulations to the 2025 first-round pick that the Flames sent to the Montreal Canadiens in the Sean Monahan deal, but if they finish with a top-10 pick, odds are is that they end up keeping it, which is the best-case scenario for them.
Carolina Hurricanes: Can We Make A Cup Run?
There has been a lot of playoff success for the Carolina Hurricanes over the past six seasons, depending on who you ask. Most teams in the NHL would be more than happy to have the amount of series wins as the Hurricanes in that span, but for the club, it hasn’t been enough.
The Hurricanes have been to the second round plenty of times, and the conference final a few times, too. They haven’t been able to get over that hump, but last season, general manager (GM) Don Waddell went all-in for the first time to that extent, and it didn’t work as well as hoped. Now that Eric Tulsky has taken over, will he have a similar mindset of not selling the future for now, or will he see the potential in this roster and reward them by making a big addition prior to the playoffs?
Chicago Blackhawks: What Is Kyle Davidson’s Offseason Plan?
In the 2024 offseason, Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson opted to try and accelerate the rebuild by adding some quality wingers to play alongside his star center, Connor Bedard. With the additions of Teuvo Teravainen, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Taylor Hall in the lineup again, there was hope that the offense would take another step. That hasn’t happened, so now what?
The Blackhawks gave out a good amount of money in the offseason, and while most contracts were reasonable, and the Blackhawks could have upwards of $30 million in cap space this offseason, how does Davidson move forward with that?
Colorado Avalanche: Will Mikko Rantanen Return to the Avalanche?
One of the biggest pending unrestricted free agents (UFA) this offseason is superstar winger Mikko Rantanen. With back-to-back 100+-point seasons and is on track for a third one with 53 points in 37 games, he is going to command a lot of money. Some reports suggest that he could look for as high as $14 million, will the Colorado Avalanche be able to figure that out, or will they let him walk and add more depth in lieu of his absence?
Looking at the injuries that they have dealt with this season, the fact that they are as high in the standings as they are is a miracle, and part of that is because of Rantanen. So, do they look at that and say there is no way we let him go, or use it to make the rest of their roster stronger and have better depth in case that happens again?
Columbus Blue Jackets: Is This Just The Beginning for Zach Werenski?
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Weresnki has been one of the best defensemen in the NHL this season. With 11 goals and 39 points in 37 games, Werenksi is second on the team in scoring, and playing over 26 minutes per night. Now, offensive play is certainly what gets your name into the Norris Trophy conversation, but his defensive play has been excellent and he is a huge reason as to how the Blue Jackets have taken a step forward and currently sit just four points out of a playoff spot.
So the question is, is this going to be a regular thing for Weresnki like we all knew was possible, or is he going to go back to his normal, yet still impressive, 45-point self?
Dallas Stars: Who Replaces Tyler Seguin?
Earlier in the season it was announced that Tyler Seguin would miss a significant amount of time, and wouldn’t be back until the playoffs start. He is an important part of the team and was having a great start to the season, but the Stars are doing just fine without him still. When a player misses the rest of the regular season, their salary cap hit goes onto long-term injured reserve, and with that, the Stars have $9.5 million extra to play with this season.
That money can go a very long way in the regular season, and with retention, accrued cap space, and other factors, they can add a ton to their roster. So the question for them is what to do with that money?
Detroit Red Wings: Has The Yzerplan Failed?
Since taking over as the Detroit Red Wings GM, Steve Yzerman has added a lot of young talent to the team, including Moritz Seider, Lucas Raymond, Simon Edvinsson, and others. He has also brought in Alex DeBrincat, Andrew Copp, J.T. Compher, and other impactful players. However, none of that seems to be translating to success. In Yzerman’s five full seasons as the GM, the club hasn’t finished higher than fifth in the Atlantic Division and is on track to be a bottom-three team in that group yet again.
Steve Yzerman, Detroit Red Wings (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
They came so close to a playoff spot last season, but close doesn’t matter. It has been eight seasons, soon to be nine, without the playoffs for Detroit, and many fans are losing faith in Yzerman’s Yzerplan. Has the rebuild failed? Is it time to look for a new GM?
Edmonton Oilers: Can We Do Better Than Last Season?
It is hard to do much better than reaching Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, but the Edmonton Oilers are gunning to do just that. Now, the Oilers have had their taste of the Stanley Cup, but are still looking to win it. That is the only thing that matters, and with some improvements over the offseason and the early parts of the regular season, there is a strong chance they can make it back, but can they win it this year?
Florida Panthers: Will Ekblad or Bennett Be Re-Signed?
Based on the on-ice performance, there are not many questions to be had for the Florida Panthers. They have made it to the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons and won last year. They are doing great this season, and everything is going just about as well as they could be.
When a team has this much success in a short span, it is hard to keep the team together and repeat the success. We saw the Tampa Bay Lightning, moving on from Yanni Gourde, Barclay Goodrow, Blake Coleman, Ryan McDonough (briefly), and others. With the Panthers, they already lost Brandon Montour, Radko Gudas, and other depth players, and this season, Aaron Ekblad and Sam Bennett, two key pieces of their lineup, are pending UFA’s and could be elsewhere by next season.
LA Kings: Do We Have To Play The Oilers Again?
As it sits right now, the LA Kings and the Oilers are second and third in the Pacific Division. Anything can happen, but right now they aren’t close to catching first place, though they aren’t far ahead of a wildcard position. There is a strong chance that these two teams will face off for the fourth season in a row in the first round. Of course, the Oilers have won each of the last three, and it is becoming a recurring nightmare for the Kings.
Minnesota Wild: What Could We Do With Even More Cap Space?
The Minnesota Wild are one of the best teams in the NHL. They are getting great goaltending, Kirill Kaprizov is in the running for the Hart Trophy, and the defense is as strong as ever. Imagine a hypothetical world where a team could be this good while having a nearly $15 million disadvantage? Well, it isn’t a hypothetical. The buyout penalty for Zach Parise and Ryan Suter are strapping the Wild still, but this offseason, the penalty will be reduced to a combined $1.66 million, which is $13 million more than they have now.
While it won’t help this season, the Wild could be in a fantastic position to add to a great team already. Sure, Kaprizov needs an extension this offseason, and some young players are working their way into big payday territory, but those are all manageable. The Wild could have an extremely interesting offseason.
Montreal Canadiens: Is Patrik Laine Our Savior?
The Montreal Canadiens acquired Patrik Laine in the offseason and was unfortunately injured in the preseason before ever getting to officially lace up for the Canadiens. The Canadiens were struggling heavily to start the season, but with Laine in the lineup, they have a record of 8-4-0, and Laine not only leads his team in goals during that span, but also caught up to the rest of the league in powerplay goals as he is tied for third in the league with eight powerplay goals in just 12 games, roughly 25 games behind the rest of the league.
The Canadiens aren’t used to being a bad team. Having Laine being this impactful and helping turn the team around is great news, though they may not be ready for that big step yet, it will be soon.
Nashville Predators: Can We Go See A U2 Concert Or Something?
Last season, the Nashville Predators were struggling to get close to a playoff spot, but after a disappointing stretch of games, GM Barry Trotz canceled a team event, a trip to a U2 concert while in Vegas. After that, the Predators went on an unreal run and made the playoffs. This year, things have been even more disappointing than the stretch leading up to the concert, even more so because they added some significant pieces in the offseason, like Jonathan Marchessault and Steven Stamkos.
While the funny thing to say is that this team needs another U2 concert canceled, they really do need some added motivation. Trotz has been tinkering with the lineup, and making the team different, but the results are staying the same. There is a ton of potential with this team, but they just need to figure out how to play for each other.
New Jersey Devils: Are We The Best Team in the NHL?
At the time of writing, the New Jersey Devils are third in the standings and have one of the most complete lineups in the league. Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, and Jesper Bratt have been all playing superstar-caliber hockey, and on the back end, Brenden Dillon, Brett Pesce, and Jonathan Kovacevic have complimented the other three defensemen the Devils already had very well. Of course, Jacob Markstrom’s addition has been excellent too.
There isn’t much to complain about with this Devils team, and after missing the playoffs last season, they are so back, and look like they could truly contend for the Stanley Cup.
New York Islanders: Will Lou Lamoriello Ever Retire?
While GM Lou Lamoriello has done a decent job of keeping the New York Islanders in the playoff conversation, and has taken them to the Eastern Conference Final a few times, things are starting to go south for the club, and their 82-year-old GM hasn’t been able to make the changes needed to keep this team above water. They are to the point now that there are serious talks about this team becoming sellers, and with great players like Mat Barzal, Noah Dobson, and Ilya Sorokin, it feels like a waste of potential.
New York Rangers: When Will This Season End?
The biggest question for the New York Rangers is about when the season ends. The reigning Presidents’ Trophy winners have had one of the more chaotic seasons in recent memory, which includes trading their captain after threatening to waive him, scratching and having trade talks about one of your top goal-scorers in Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad’s struggles, and so on…
There is still a fair chance the Rangers make it into the playoffs, and could even do well there. Unless they win the Stanley Cup, this will be a season to forget with all of the chaos.
Ottawa Senators: Will We Finally Make The Playoffs?
For the first time since 2016-17, the Ottawa Senators hold a playoff spot in Decemeber. It has been a somber seven years in Ottawa, and after major acquisitions like Alex DeBrincat and Jakob Chychrun failed, new GM Steve Staios seems to have finally brought the right pieces in, which includes head coach Travis Green.
The Senators have been helped by Linus Ullmark’s outstanding performances as of late, and while he is injured for what is expected to be a short time, this team finally looks like they are ready to be the first of the four rebuilds in the Atlantic Division to make the playoffs.
Philadelphia Flyers: Who Will Michkov’s Center Be?
The emergence of Matvei Michkov has been outstanding, and he is in the running for the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie, but one big question surrounding him, literally and figuratively, will be who is going to be his center partner moving forward?
Travis Konecny and Matvei Michkov celebrate a goal for the Philadelphia Flyers (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
For most of this season, Michkov has spent time with Sean Couturier as his center. While Couturier was once an elite two-way center, he isn’t the same anymore. His point totals aren’t what they once were and while he is still good defensively, he is much better suited as a second or third-line center. So, will GM Danny Briere go out and get Michkov a true number-one center this offseason?
Pittsburgh Penguins: Can Kyle Dubas Save Sidney Crosby From Misery?
The Pittsburgh Penguins have been slowly heading downhill for a number of years now, but the three core members of the legendary run the Penguins had still remain, being Kris Letang, Evgeni Malkin, and of course, Sidney Crosby. The extension Crosby signed signified that he isn’t willing to give up on a team that clearly needs to start a teardown, but it seems that GM Kyle Dubas is committed to saving Crosby and the team from a miserable few seasons as bottom-feeders.
The Penguins are in contention for a playoff spot, which is something not everybody had predicted, and Crosby is going to have another chance to push for the playoffs, but will the Penguins be good enough to make any real noise even if they get in?
San Jose Sharks: Can We Take A Big Step Next Season?
The San Jose Sharks have struck gold. With any first-overall pick, you are expecting a great player, but Macklin Celebrini may have advanced the rebuild by a few seasons on his own. He has been much better than anybody had anticipated, and with the strong support from players like Mikael Granlund, William Eklund, Jake Walman, and Tyler Toffoli, there is a good chance that the Sharks GM Mike Grier takes the opportunity to try and take a big step next season by weaponizing the $35+ million in cap space they have for next season.
Seattle Kraken: Can Kaapo Kakko Be Better Here than in New York?
It isn’t often you get to acquire a 23-year-old second-overall pick for a price as low as the Seattle Kraken acquired Kaapo Kakko for. Hindsight always helps when it comes to evaluating draft picks, but Kakko was in serious conversations to be picked first over Jack Hughes. There is talent there, and Kakko has proven to be good on the powerplay when given the chance, and his strong defensive play is already present. A big opportunity for Kakko to turn his career around is here, and Seattle will give him every opportunity to break out into a true star as everyone expected him to be.
St. Louis Blues: Are We Going to See A Rebuild Or What?
After last season, things were pointing toward a rebuild for the St. Louis Blues. Since that was the general idea, GM Doug Armstrong has offer-sheeted Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg, and acquired Cam Fowler. Now, Brogerg and Holloway make the team younger and better, which is a good thing, but as mentioned with the Flames, the murky middle is a scary place.
Acquiring Fowler makes sense if the team was good enough to be dangerous, but they are still more likely to miss the playoff than they are to make the playoffs. A rebuild would make sense at this point, but only time will tell which direction Armstrong takes this team in.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Can Nikita Kucherov Win More Hardware?
The Tampa Bay Lightning have had their magic, with two Stanley Cup’s and multiple other Final trips, so wishing for more is just greedy.
Yes, every team always wants more, and players always want more. The same goes with Nikita Kucherov. While he would probably never tell you he would love to win an award based on all of the other media conferences and All-Star appearances he has had, he is in the running for another Art Ross and Hart Trophy. Will he win more?
Toronto Maple Leafs: Which Goalie Starts in Game 1 of the Playoffs?
The Toronto Maple Leafs entered the season with Anthony Stolarz and Joesph Woll as their tandem, and while both goalies have been good over the past few seasons, it was a big ask for the two of them to split the crease. Well, they didn’t take long to establish themselves as one of the best duo’s in the NHL, and the only question now is which one will start the playoffs for the Maple Leafs?
Anthony Stolarz, Toronto Maple Leafs (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Both goalies have been outstanding. The Leafs seem to play better in front of Woll, while Stolarz faces more shots and high danger chances per game. At this point, neither goalie has taken a step back to make it clear for head coach Craig Berube to choose, but it will be an interesting storyline to follow.
Utah HC: Can We Make the Playoffs in Year 1?
The Utah Hockey Club, who had taken the roster and prospects from the Arizona Coyotes, are in their first year, and while outside of the location, nothing on paper has changed, the vibes around the players and fanbase has greatly improved, and this team is in a position to challenge for a wildcard spot in the playoffs. Their owner, Ryan Smith, has been fantastic at embracing the hockey team and making Utah love the team. Seeing them make the playoffs would be a great thing to see.
Vancouver Canucks: When Will The Drama Ever End?
Over the past few seasons, the Vancouver Canucks have dealt with a lot of drama, probably more than anyone else. From the whole Bruce Boudreau fiasco, to J.T Miller trade rumors, and now the reported tension between Miller and Elias Pettersson. At this point, all Canucks fans want is a few quiet weeks, no drama, no rumors, no issues, just quiet.
Vegas Golden Knights: Can We Win One More Stanley Cup?
There has never been a team with a start to their franchise quite like the Vegas Golden Knights. A Stanley Cup, another Stanley Cup Final appearance, and lots of other playoff success, and the Golden Knights are still starving for another Cup. Most fans that have a strong disliking for the Golden Knights is truthfully out of spite, jealousy, and wish their team had that kind of success.
So, with all of the haters, why not another? The Golden Knights are still a fantastic team and could realistically challenge for another Cup.
Washington Capitals: How Long Until Ovechkin Catches Gretzky?
There was no other question to be had here. As this is written, Alexander Ovechkin is just 24 goals from tying Wayne Gretzky, and 25 away from taking the all-time record for goal-scoring. After missing five weeks with a broken leg, many figured that would end up being next season, but with two goals in his two games back in action, he remains at a ridiculous pace and has 17 goals in 20 games. The countdown is on.
Winnipeg Jets: Can We Be Impactful In The Playoffs Again?
The 2017-18 playoffs was a magical time for Winnipeg Jets fans, and there was some hope that they would be able to see that again last season. Things didn’t work out that way, but this season, the Jets are the top team in the league, and have a very balanced roster and have hopefully learned from their mistakes last season.
With those 32 questions out of the way, what are some others that need to be answered in 2025? Leave a comment down below with the biggest question needing a resolution for your favorite team.
