Rico Reunion in the Cards for the Devils?
A look at the Devils Stadium Series matchup and sweaters, analysis of Jonas Siegenthaler, the possible return of Adam Henrique, and an exclusive chat with The Cobra
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In today’s edition, we feature articles about Siegenthaler’s inconsistent season, the stadium series strategy, reuniting with Adam Henrique, a decade of misses on goaltending, our 5(ish) Questions with Chris Tierney and much more; please share this free substack with your hockey and Devils fan friends and family so they can subscribe and enjoy all the latest.
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The Rise and Fall of Devils’ Jonas Siegenthaler
February 1, 2024, by JP Gambatese
After New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald acquired defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler for a 2021 third-round pick, Siegenthaler has endured a rollercoaster-esque few seasons. When he first arrived in New Jersey, he was outright dominant in his own end, shutting down the opposition’s top offensive stars on a nightly basis. At times, he was the best defensive defenseman in the league. Now, it seems that his prior success was a flash in the pan – he’s become one of the league’s worst defensemen, period. Siegenthaler is now on injured reserve — he broke his foot blocking a shot
4 Strategies for a Devils Victory vs. Flyers in Stadium Series Game
January 31, 2024, by Jordan Slompo
The NHL’s Stadium Series will bring together two major rivals in the Metropolitan Division. MetLife Stadium will host on Feb. 17 the clash between the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers in a game that promises to intensify the battle for a playoff spot. The Flyers are in a more comfortable situation, holding the third position and are currently in a playoff spot. Moreover, they are closer to the leaders, New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes.
On the other hand, the Devils, who had high expectations for this season, are languishing in a modest sixth place and outside the wild card race, trailing the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins. However, the outdoor game will add a touch of tension, and the ice may heat up as the separation between the Devils and Flyers is five points,Â
Devils Reuniting With Adam Henrique at the Deadline Makes Sense
January 30, 2024 by Neil Villapiano
New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald has some work to do. With just over $9 million dollars in cap space, the newly extended man in charge has the flexibility to improve his team as they push to get back into the postseason for a second straight season. There are needs at the goaltending position and on defense.
However, with Michael McLeod now out on an indefinite leave of absence, there’s a massive hole at center. Looking at trade options, Devils fans have always had a warm place in their heart for Anaheim Ducks forward Adam Henrique.
5(ish) Questions With Devils Forward, "The Cobra" Chris Tierney
January 31, 2024, by Josh Reinitz (Premium Content)
Chris Tierney was signed over the summer and considered an afterthought by most people. Expected to be on the fringe of the roster or to spend time in the American Hockey League, Tierney’s solid play and locker-room presence earned him a roster spot out of training camp. With the litany of injuries faced by the Devils, Tierney’s versatility, including his ability to shift between center and wing and take penalty-killing shifts, has been an unexpected bonus.
Since Jack Hughes left the lineup injured on January 5, Tierney has led all Devils players in on-ice expected goals for percentage xGF%. As the team continues to contend with having three of their top five centers out of the lineup, Tierney’s experience is invaluable.
Now for our exclusive Q&A with The Cobra:
Devils’ Goalie Struggles Since The Brodeur Era
January 27, 2024 by Jordan Slompo
The team underwent extensive restructuring and acquired gems in the draft, such as Jack Hughes, but there is still a journey ahead. Ironically, the team’s significant challenge lies precisely in the position where it perhaps had the greatest success in its history: goaltending.
It’s a known fact that goaltenders can alter the course of a playoff series. It’s also natural for fans who witnessed Martin Brodeur‘s incredible career and cinematic saves to desire and demand a high-caliber goalie.Â
Perhaps even more than for other teams, goalies in New Jersey feel pressure to perform. So why haven’t the Devils secured a standout goalie to close the gap and finally confirm their status as one of the NHL’s best teams? It’s certainly not for lack of attempts.
Devils’ Unveil Stadium Series Jerseys: Bold, Bright, & Big
January 26, 2024 by Erica Rosenbaum
New Jersey’s jersey design is bold and features massive font, a nod to football jerseys. General manager Tom Fitzgerald mentioned that the jersey numbers could be seen from anywhere in MetLife Stadium. The bright red is contrasted by the dark black of the Devils’ crest. The logo has been used without a circle on a jersey for the first time.
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