Newark, NJ – The New Jersey Devils return to Prudential Center tonight to face the Calgary Flames, marking their first game after a three-day break. Despite the respite, the team utilized the time for intensive practice, aiming to refine their game as they navigate the stretch run of the NHL season. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom is confirmed to start in net for the Devils, despite having the option to skip the morning skate.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe explained that Markstrom, who doesn’t typically favor morning skate sessions, was given a choice and opted to rest. “We gave him the option,” Keefe said. “He doesn’t love to skate on mornings of games. We gave him the option, and he chose to stay off.” This decision comes as the Devils look to build momentum following a period with more practice time than games, a factor Keefe believes will be beneficial.
The Devils will ice the following lineup tonight:
Meier – Hischier – Mercer
Bratt – Hughes – Brown
Gritsyuk – Glass – Hameenaho
Cotter – Bjugstad – Tsyplakov
Siegenthaler – Hamilton
Hughes – Kovacevic
Dillon – Nemec
A notable adjustment to the forward lines sees Jesper Bratt reunited with Jack Hughes, although Arseny Gritsyuk will play alongside Cody Glass and Lenni Hameenaho. Glass noted the familiarity within the lines, stating, “It’s a little bit of an adjustment but we played with Gritsyuk for a while, so we grasp what he is. It’s a little bit different but at the complete of the day communication is key.”
Glass also highlighted the development of the team’s younger players, particularly rookie Lenni Hameenaho. “He’s been awesome,” Glass said. “One of the hardest things for myself, going through juniors and everything, is the offense is there but learning the defensive side in the NHL is really hard because you’re playing against men. He’s done a real good job with that. The sky is the limit for him.”
Increased Practice Time
The recent break in the schedule has allowed the Devils coaching staff to focus on refining aspects of the team’s play. Keefe emphasized the value of the extended practice time. “We’ve been able to receive some good practice time. I’m hopeful that will continue to be productive for us. Between coming out of the break and the gaps that we’ve had between our games, I experience we’ve practiced more in these last few weeks than we have virtually the entire season.” He added, “The last couple days, two practices in a row, you can address a couple different things and build and progress. That’s really hard to do with the typical schedule which is around the corner and coming back to reality. I believe that’s made a difference in how we’ve been able to play.”
Scouting the Flames
The Devils are preparing for a Calgary Flames team that Keefe described as a “smart” and “hard-working” opponent. Keefe acknowledged the Flames have undergone changes and are currently navigating a period without some key players. “They’re missing some guys and made some moves. They’re missing some of the top-end skill that a lot of teams have. Lots of depth throughout their lineup. You have to be prepared to play, execute and play well.” He also noted Calgary’s recent strong performance, stating, “Watching the pre-scout, they handled Carolina quite easily at home just last week. You have to be ready with how they play and what they’re capable of, like any team in the NHL.”
The Flames traded Jacob Markstrom to the Devils on June 19, 2024, in exchange for defenseman Kevin Bahl and their 2025 first-round pick, which was later used to select Cole Reschny, according to NHL.com. Markstrom, a Swedish goaltender currently with the Devils, was originally drafted by the Florida Panthers in 2008 and has also played for the Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames, as detailed by Wikipedia.
Tonight’s game offers the Devils an opportunity to build on their recent practice sessions and solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings. The team will be looking to translate the benefits of increased preparation into a strong performance against a resilient Flames squad.
What are your predictions for tonight’s game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
