New Jersey Devils restructure roster following playoff miss

The New Jersey Devils are entering the 2026-27 season following a period of significant organizational change. After a strong start to the 2025-26 campaign, the team missed the playoffs due to injuries, inconsistent defense, and goaltending struggles. A notable setback included star center Jack Hughes missing time after a hand injury in November.

Following the team's collapse, the Devils have restructured their roster. A key move involved trading Jacob Markstrom to the Florida Panthers. To address the vacancy in net, the team is experimenting with a three-goalie rotation consisting of Jake Allen, David Rittich, and Nico Daws. The success of this arrangement is viewed as being heavily dependent on the development of Daws.