The New Jersey Devils returned to the ice after a long offseason, kicking off their 2024 preseason with a 4-2 loss to the New York Islanders on Sunday night at the Prudential Center. While the game didn’t end in victory, there were several encouraging performances, particularly from Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and newcomer Jacob Markstrom.
Hischier and Bratt each recorded two points, with Bratt assisting on Hischier’s early power-play goal, giving the Devils a promising start just 29 seconds into the game. However, despite the strong opening, the Islanders responded, and the Devils couldn’t maintain their momentum, ultimately falling to New York in a game that saw New Jersey fade in the third period.
Fast Start, but Islanders Strike Back
The game couldn’t have started better for the Devils. After Adam Pelech was called for holding 29 seconds into the game, New Jersey capitalized on their first power play of the season. Jesper Bratt intercepted a turnover and fed Hischier in the slot, who buried a shot to put the Devils up 1-0 early.
Despite holding a 1-0 lead through the first period, the Islanders took control in the second, with goals from Anders Lee and Julien Gauthier turning the game in their favor. Bratt briefly restored the Devils’ lead with a beautiful breakaway goal after being set up by Tomas Tatar, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide.
Third Period Belonged to the Islanders
The Islanders dominated the third period, scoring twice to seal the win. Cam Thiesing’s impressive solo effort gave New York the lead, and Simon Holmstrom added an empty-net goal in the final seconds to secure the victory.
The Devils managed only four shots on goal in the third period, struggling to generate much offense as the game progressed. With the final whistle, the Devils were left to reflect on a mixed performance in their preseason opener.
Markstrom Makes His Devils Debut
All eyes were on Jacob Markstrom, the Devils’ new goaltender, who was making his debut after coming over in a trade from the Calgary Flames in June. Markstrom played the first two periods and made 17 saves on 19 shots. While he wasn’t spectacular, he made some strong saves, including a key stop in the first period, showing flashes of the talent that made him a highly sought-after acquisition.
“I thought he looked solid,” said Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe. “He made some important saves, and overall, I think it was a positive first outing for him.”
Nico Daws took over for Markstrom in the third period but conceded two goals, including the game-winner from Thiesing.
Newcomers and Familiar Faces
Several new players took the ice for the Devils, including defensemen Brenden Dillon and Jonathan Kovacevic, both making their Devils debuts. Dillon, who was paired with Dougie Hamilton, had a quiet but steady performance, while Kovacevic impressed with his physical play and strong defensive presence.
Another offseason addition, Paul Cotter, made his presence felt on the fourth line, playing alongside Curtis Lazar and Nathan Bastian. The trio had some of the best moments of the game for New Jersey and showed promise for the regular season.
Meanwhile, familiar faces like Dougie Hamilton and Tomas Tatar returned to the lineup after time away. Hamilton, playing his first game since a season-ending injury last November, looked sharp, especially in breaking out of the defensive zone. Tatar and Stefan Noesen also returned to Devils jerseys, with Tatar registering an assist on Bratt’s goal.
Looking Ahead
Though the preseason loss wasn’t ideal, the Devils’ primary focus is building chemistry, getting players back to game speed, and staying healthy. Despite the defeat, there were positive takeaways, and the team will look to improve as they head to Montreal for their next preseason game against the Canadiens on Tuesday.
Your Take
The Devils are back, and now it’s your turn! What were your thoughts on tonight’s game? Which new players stood out? How do you feel about Markstrom’s debut? Let us know in the comments as we gear up for another exciting season of Devils hockey!
