New Jersey Devils prepare for 2026-27 season opener

The New Jersey Devils are preparing to begin their 2026-27 NHL campaign with a home opener against the Philadelphia Flyers on October 1. Following a disappointing previous season, the team enters a new era under general manager Sunny Mehta, who has implemented a significant roster overhaul aimed at long-term success and a Stanley Cup run.

Key changes include a restructured goaltending situation. After trading Jacob Markstrom to the Florida Panthers to avoid a major salary cap commitment, the team is looking to young goaltender Nico Daws to potentially secure the starting role alongside Jake Allen.

In the preseason, the Devils showed strength in depth and secondary scoring, finishing with a 3-0-1 record in exhibition games against the New York Islanders and New York Rangers. Newcomers such as Amadeus Lombardi and Luke Evangelista have made notable impacts, contributing to high-danger scoring opportunities and strong statistical performances during the preseason.