2024 Preseason Game Preview #6: New Jersey Devils at New York Rangers

The matchup: The New Jersey Devils at the New York Rangers

The time: 7:00 p.m. ET

The broadcast: TV: TNT, truTV; Digital: MAX; Audio: Devils Hockey Radio

Part Two

The Devils and Rangers played last night. Or was it the Utica Comets and the Hartford Wolf Pack? However, Jeremy Brodeur played extremely well in goal for the Devils as the Skaters scored three goals to beat the Blueshirts. With the preseason quickly coming to an end, I expect the Rangers to look to add more players to their NHL roster tonight. Yesterday, Rangers' group lineups outside of the game looked like this:

Will the devils face off? all from these guys tonight? Maybe, but maybe not. The Devils, on the other hand, don't really have a great mix of players who sat last night and could come into the lineup tonight for some extra energy. Some young forwards like Adam Beckman, Josh Filmon, Cam Squires and Dylan Wendt could be added to the lineup tonight. On the defensive side, I could see the 6ft 3in Jackson van de Leest pushing his way into the lineup – especially if Matt Rempe plays for the Rangers. And in goal, I highly doubt Jeremy Brodeur will be made available for tonight's game, although it would be cool to see him play against NHL shooters. The Devils still have Isaac Poulter, Tyler Brennan and Michael Hutchinson in camp. I would imagine today will be a split day for Isaac Poulter and Michael Hutchinson.

Other than these few possible changes, the Devils don't have much to move. Assuming the Rangers play at least some of their best forwards and defensemen tonight, they will likely be at a bit of a disadvantage as more of the Rangers will likely be rested on the ice than the Devils.

fishing

Tonight is another big night for Kevin Labanc, who had his best night of preseason last night. If Labanc plays well against better competition, he will be on his way to an NHL contract. Whether that contract comes from the Devils or another team remains to be seen, but it would be pretty easy to find a spot for Labanc on the roster if he continues to play like he did last night. Other depth forwards like Mike Hardman, Brian Halonen, Nathan Legare and Justin Dowling will likely remain in the lineup tonight as well, as they are still playing for future assignments as potential call-ups.

And while Chase Stillman had a good night last night, I wonder if there will be any other young Devils like Cam Squires or Josh Filmon in the lineup tonight. Against more NHL-caliber opponents, the team may need more talent to score, and these two will be eager to show they can perform at a higher level while still contributing to the offense. It may not be a Jack Hughes-led showdown, but there's still work to be done here.

Your thoughts

What do you think of the game tonight? Will you watch? Leave your thoughts in the comments below and thanks for reading.