Exciting Showdown: New Jersey Devils Take on Tampa Bay Lightning in Game Preview

Tonight, the New Jersey Devils are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning in Florida. This game marks the third of five road contests for the Devils, who carry an impressive 13-4-1 record and are looking to capitalize on their recent form. The team has gone 4-0-1 in their last five outings, despite facing an increasing number of injuries.

Matchup Overview

The Tampa Bay Lightning enter the game with a record of 9-7-2. This will be the second meeting between the two teams this season, following the Devils’ 5-3 victory in their first matchup. The teams will play again on December 11 in Newark.

Injury Updates

In recent weeks, the Devils have made significant roster moves, including recalling Ethan Edwards from Utica. Several players, including Hamilton, Brown, and Dadonov, joined the team in Florida and participated in Monday’s practice. Coach Shelton Keefe mentioned that their availability will be determined closer to gametime.

Injury List

• New Jersey Devils:
  • J. Hughes (finger)
  • MacEwen (lower-body)
  • Glass (upper-body)
  • Hamilton (undisclosed)
  • Brown (undisclosed)
  • Pesce (upper-body)
  • Dadonov (hand)
  • Kovacevic (knee)
  • McLaughlin (undisclosed)
• Tampa Bay Lightning:
  • Paul (upper-body)
  • Cirelli (upper-body)
  • McDonagh (lower-body)
  • James (upper-body)
  • Hedman (undisclosed)
  • Holmberg (undisclosed)

Players to Watch

For the Devils, Jack Hughes leads with 10 goals but is sidelined for at least six weeks due to a hand injury. In his absence, Simon Nemec has emerged, scoring four goals in three games after registering a hat trick against Chicago.

The Lightning’s Jake Guentzel has also been noteworthy, contributing three goals and one assist over his last five games. Both teams are keen to showcase their skills tonight—Devils striving for a third consecutive road win and the Lightning looking to bounce back from a recent 6-2 loss to Vancouver.

Game Expectations

Coach Keefe emphasized the importance of matching the intensity demonstrated in their previous encounter. He commented on the Lightning’s improved performance and expressed confidence in his team. The puck drops at 7 PM in Tampa Bay, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.