Tag: New Jersey Devils

Luke Evangelista dealt to Devils for two draft picks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | September 2, 2026

Story Summary

Luke Evangelista was traded to the New Jersey Devils by the Nashville Predators, with Nashville receiving a conditional first-round pick and a second-round selection in the 2028 NHL Draft. Evangelista, 24, had a career-high 56 points (12 goals, 44 assists) in 81 games last season and is entering the second year of a two-year, $6 million contract ($3 million average annual value). He can become a restricted free agent after this season.

Key Facts

Luke Evangelista was traded from the Nashville Predators to the New Jersey Devils.
The Predators received a conditional first-round pick and a second-round selection in the 2028 NHL Draft.
New Jersey previously received the conditional first-round pick from the Calgary Flames in the deal for defenseman Simon Nemec on June 23.
Evangelista recorded an NHL career-high 56 points (12 goals, 44 assists) in 81 games for Nashville last season.
He has 142 career points (45 goals, 97 assists) in 253 regular-season games and one goal in six playoff games.
Evangelista is 24 years old and is entering the second season of a two-year, $6 million contract signed Oct. 4, 2025, with a $3 million average annual value.
Evangelista can become a restricted free agent after this season.
Predators general manager Chris MacFarland said the decision was not made lightly and that the trade provides draft flexibility, roster and salary-cap manoeuvring, and opportunities for younger wingers in Nashville to compete for NHL jobs. He added: “We wish Luke all the best in New Jersey.”

IHM Discussion

This trade moves a young, productive forward to New Jersey while converting a proven asset into future draft capital for Nashville. The Devils add a 24-year-old who posted a career-best 56 points last season; the Predators add a conditional first and a 2028 second. Nashville said the move also creates roster and salary-cap flexibility and opens competition for younger wingers.

Why It Matters

For New Jersey, Evangelista adds a 56-point forward to its depth. For Nashville, the exchange adds two draft picks while creating roster and salary-cap flexibility, with younger wingers set to compete for NHL jobs.

IHM Market Outlook

The Predators explicitly framed the move as one that creates flexibility from a roster and salary-cap standpoint and increases their draft assets: MacFarland noted the trade gives Nashville “two more high draft picks, giving us seven in the first two rounds over the next two seasons.” From a market perspective, Nashville has converted an established, but affordable, short-term asset (Evangelista is on a $3 million AAV) into longer-term capital. For the Devils, adding a 56-point forward on a $3 million AAV for one year is a low-risk way to boost scoring depth ahead of the season.

Fan Pulse

Predators supporters may be disappointed to see a young contributor leave, while Devils fans will be eager to see how Evangelista fits in New Jersey. Nashville followers will also watch how the club uses its added draft capital and the opportunities created for younger wingers.

Mini Q&A

Who was traded and between which teams?

Luke Evangelista was traded from the Nashville Predators to the New Jersey Devils.

What did the Predators receive in return?

Nashville received a conditional first-round pick and a second-round selection in the 2028 NHL Draft.

What were Evangelista’s stats last season?

Evangelista had a career-high 56 points last season, with 12 goals and 44 assists in 81 games.

What is Evangelista’s contract status?

He is entering the second season of a two-year, $6 million contract with a $3 million average annual value and can become a restricted free agent after this season.

Did the deal involve picks previously held by another team?

Yes. New Jersey had previously received the conditional first-round pick from the Calgary Flames in the Simon Nemec trade on June 23.

Coach Mark Comment

Evangelista’s 44 assists last season point to a forward who can create for linemates. His offensive production gives New Jersey another option to evaluate across its forward combinations.

What Comes Next

The conditional first-round pick and the second-round selection are tied to the 2028 NHL Draft and will be resolved at or before that draft. Evangelista can become a restricted free agent after the upcoming season, meaning his contract status will require attention at season’s end.

IHM Final View

New Jersey adds a young forward coming off a career-best season, while Nashville receives two draft picks and the roster and salary-cap flexibility cited by general manager Chris MacFarland. The trade will be measured by Evangelista’s production in New Jersey and Nashville’s use of the added assets.

Devils acquire Luke Evangelista from Predators

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | September 2, 2026

Story Summary

The New Jersey Devils have acquired 24-year-old forward Luke Evangelista from the Nashville Predators. New Jersey sent a conditional first-round pick (Colorado’s) and its own 2028 second-round selection to Nashville in the deal, which the teams announced Tuesday.

Key Facts

New Jersey Devils acquired Luke Evangelista from the Nashville Predators.
The Devils traded a conditional first-round pick (Colorado’s) and their 2028 second-round pick to Nashville.
The conditional first-round pick is Colorado’s; if the Avalanche do not transfer their 2027 pick to Toronto or if the 2028 choice is in the top 10, the Predators will receive that pick in 2029.
Evangelista is 24 years old.
Last season Evangelista recorded career highs with 44 assists and 56 points, and he scored 12 goals.
He has one year remaining on his contract with a salary-cap hit of $3 million.
Evangelista has 143 points in 259 regular-season and playoff games in the NHL.
Predators general manager Chris MacFarland said the trade provides roster and salary-cap flexibility and creates space for young wingers in Nashville.
The move is the latest for the Devils under first-time general manager Sunny Mehta.

IHM Discussion

This is a straight-line trade in which New Jersey adds a 24-year-old forward coming off his best statistical season, while Nashville receives draft capital and roster and cap flexibility. Evangelista’s 44 assists last season underline his playmaking output, while his 56 points and 12 goals show he can both create and finish. With one year remaining at a $3 million cap hit, the acquisition gives the Devils a productive forward without a long-term commitment. Nashville’s decision to move the player while receiving a conditional first-round pick and a second-rounder indicates a priority on flexibility and opportunities for younger wingers within the organisation, as Predators GM Chris MacFarland stated.

Why It Matters

For the Devils, the trade adds a young forward who posted career highs in assists and points – the sort of player who can bolster secondary scoring and playmaking depth immediately. For the Predators, the return is less about immediate on-ice replacement and more about creating roster and salary-cap room while replenishing draft assets. The conditional nature of the first-round pick ties Nashville’s long-term return to the status of Colorado’s 2027 and 2028 picks, which keeps some future value uncertain until the conditions are resolved.

IHM Market Outlook

Nashville explicitly framed the transaction as a means to gain roster and salary-cap flexibility. That suggests the Predators may be positioning themselves to make further moves or to accelerate the path for younger wingers in their system. Meanwhile, the Devils have used draft capital to add a cost-controlled forward with immediate offensive output, a typical market choice for a team seeking near-term improvement without a large cap commitment.

Mini Q&A

Who was traded and between which teams?

Luke Evangelista was traded from the Nashville Predators to the New Jersey Devils.

What did the Devils give up?

The Devils sent a conditional first-round pick (Colorado’s) and their own 2028 second-round pick to Nashville.

What are Evangelista’s recent stats and contract status?

Last season Evangelista had 44 assists, 12 goals and 56 points. He has one year remaining on his contract with a $3 million salary-cap hit.

How many NHL points does Evangelista have in his career?

He has 143 points in 259 regular-season and playoff games.

What is the condition on the first-round pick?

The first-round pick is Colorado’s; if the Avalanche do not transfer their 2027 pick to Toronto or if the 2028 choice is in the top 10, the Predators will receive that pick in 2029.

Coach Mark Comment

Evangelista’s assist total is the clearest starting point here: 44 assists in a single season says he can create for teammates. A coach can deploy him as a puck-moving option in a role or test him on a power-play unit needing secondary playmaking. Given his one-year, $3 million cap hit, he’s a low-risk way for New Jersey to see how his play translates in a new environment before deciding on a longer-term commitment.

What Comes Next

The primary future checkpoint is the condition on the first-round pick. The Predators will only convert the Colorado pick into their possession in 2029 if Colorado does not transfer its 2027 pick to Toronto or if the 2028 choice is within the top 10. Until those contingencies are resolved, the exact timing and value of Nashville’s return remain uncertain.

IHM Final View

This trade is a classic exchange of immediate roster help for future flexibility. The Devils gain a young, productive forward under a manageable cap hit; the Predators gain draft capital and room to prioritise younger wingers. The conditional element preserves upside for Nashville but leaves part of the return pending until the specified pick conditions are settled.

No Progress on Quinn Hughes Contract Talks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | August 28, 2026

Story Summary

Quinn Hughes remains without a new contract as discussions with the Minnesota Wild continue ahead of the season. The Wild reportedly hoped to complete an eight-year extension before 15 September, when the maximum term for re-signing players drops to seven years. Hughes reportedly prefers a shorter deal, perhaps between three and five years. League sources emphatically denied rumours of trade talks between the Wild and New Jersey Devils regarding the defenceman.

Key Facts

Quinn Hughes is in the final season of a six-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $7.85 million.
There is no new contract for Hughes as September approaches; talks between Wild management and the Hughes camp continue.
The Wild reportedly hoped to sign Hughes to an eight-year extension before September 15, when the maximum term for re-signing players drops to seven years.
Hughes reportedly prefers a shorter deal, possibly between three and five years.
Michael Russo reported league sources ’emphatically’ denied rumours of trade talks between the Minnesota Wild and the New Jersey Devils concerning Hughes.
Hughes could earn between $19 million and $20 million on his next deal, according to one expectation cited.

IHM Discussion

Hughes’ negotiations are shaped by term preference and the approaching contract-rule deadline. The Wild reportedly wanted to complete an eight-year agreement before 15 September, while Hughes is said to favour a shorter term of between three and five years.

That difference does not rule out a deal. Wild management remains confident that an agreement can be reached before the season begins, and the September extension signed by Kirill Kaprizov last year offers a recent reminder that negotiations can run late. The emphatic denial of trade discussions with New Jersey also keeps the focus on a potential extension rather than a move.

The key question is whether the sides can bridge their reported difference on term. Hughes’ next contract is expected to reflect the sharp rise in pay for elite players, but its eventual structure remains unsettled.

Why It Matters

Hughes is entering the final season of his six-year contract, which carries a $7.85 million average annual value. The reported deadline for an eight-year extension gives the talks added significance, while the difference in preferred term remains the central issue.

An agreement before the season would settle Hughes’ immediate future in Minnesota. Until then, the negotiations remain ongoing and the trade rumours involving New Jersey have been denied.

IHM Market Outlook

The market for elite defencemen forms the backdrop to these talks. Hughes could earn between $19 million and $20 million on his next deal, according to the expectation cited, after carrying a $7.85 million average annual value on his current contract.

The 15 September change in maximum contract length adds a clear timing factor. The Wild reportedly hoped to complete an eight-year extension before that point, while Hughes is said to prefer a shorter agreement.

Mini Q&A

Has Quinn Hughes signed a new contract with the Wild?

No. As of the report, there is no new contract; talks between Wild management and the Hughes camp continue and the Wild remain confident a deal can be reached before the season starts.

Were there trade talks between the Wild and the Devils over Hughes?

League sources ’emphatically’ denied rumours of trade talks between the Minnesota Wild and the New Jersey Devils, according to Michael Russo.

How much could Hughes earn on his next deal?

Hughes could earn between $19 million and $20 million on his next contract, according to the expectation cited. His current deal has a $7.85 million AAV.

Why was September 15 important in these negotiations?

The Wild reportedly wanted to finalise an eight-year extension before September 15 because after that date the maximum term for re-signing players drops to seven years.

Coach Mark Comment

The reported gap is about contract structure rather than a hockey issue on the ice. For Minnesota, securing clarity before the season would allow the club to move forward with its leading defenceman’s future less of a distraction.

What Comes Next

• 15 September – the reported point after which the maximum term for re-signing players drops from eight years to seven.

• Before the season begins – Wild management remains confident that a deal with Hughes can be reached.

IHM Final View

Hughes’ contract talks remain active, with the reported difference over term still to be resolved. The approaching 15 September window adds urgency to Minnesota’s preference for an eight-year agreement, but Hughes is said to favour shorter-term flexibility. For now, there is no deal and no indication that the denied New Jersey trade rumours have altered the focus on an extension.

2019 Re-Draft: Hughes Stays No.1; Caufield to Red Wings

2019 NHL Draft Re-Draft: How the Top 10 Looks Seven Years Later

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | August 20, 2026

Story Summary

Re-running the top 10 from the 2019 NHL Draft with the benefit of hindsight produces several major changes but leaves Jack Hughes at the head of the class.

Cole Caufield rises from his original No. 15 selection to Detroit at No. 6, Moritz Seider moves up to Chicago at No. 3, while Thomas Harley climbs into the top four. Bowen Byram remains a top-10 player but moves down from his original No. 4 selection to No. 8.

The exercise shows how proven NHL scoring, defensive impact and long-term development would have changed several franchise-defining decisions.

Key Facts

No. 1, New Jersey Devils: Jack Hughes, centre. Original pick: Jack Hughes.
No. 2, New York Rangers: Matt Boldy, left wing. Original pick: Kaapo Kakko.
No. 3, Chicago Blackhawks: Moritz Seider, defenceman. Original pick: Kirby Dach.
No. 4, Colorado Avalanche: Thomas Harley, defenceman. Original pick: Bowen Byram.
No. 5, Los Angeles Kings: Pavel Dorofeyev, left wing. Original pick: Alex Turcotte.
No. 6, Detroit Red Wings: Cole Caufield, right wing. Original Detroit pick: Moritz Seider. Caufield was actually selected No. 15 overall by Montreal in 2019, meaning this re-draft moves him nine positions higher.
No. 7, Buffalo Sabres: Jackson LaCombe, defenceman. Original pick: Dylan Cozens.
No. 8, Edmonton Oilers: Bowen Byram, defenceman. Original pick: Philip Broberg. Byram was originally selected No. 4 overall by Colorado and moves down to No. 8 in this exercise.
No. 9, Anaheim Ducks: Dylan Cozens, centre. Original pick: Trevor Zegras.
No. 10, Vancouver Canucks: Trevor Zegras, left wing. Original pick: Vasili Podkolzin.

IHM Discussion

The re-draft exercise shows how dramatically several years of NHL evidence can change the value attached to a draft class.

Jack Hughes remaining at No. 1 is the easiest decision. New Jersey still receives the franchise centre around whom the rest of the roster can be constructed.

Detroit taking Cole Caufield at No. 6 is one of the most significant changes. Caufield was originally selected 15th overall by Montreal, so hindsight moves him nine positions higher rather than lower.

His proven ability to score goals at NHL level changes the calculation that surrounded him on draft night. Concerns about his 5-foot-8 frame contributed to his original slide, but years of production have provided evidence that his finishing ability outweighs those concerns.

The defensive reshuffle is equally interesting.

Moritz Seider moves from Detroit’s original No. 6 position to Chicago at No. 3, giving the Blackhawks a high-minute No. 1 defenceman.

Thomas Harley climbs into the top four at No. 4.

Bowen Byram moves in the opposite direction. Colorado originally selected him fourth overall, while this exercise places him eighth with Edmonton. He remains a valuable top-10 player, but hindsight changes his position relative to several players who developed into larger NHL roles.

Matt Boldy and Pavel Dorofeyev are two other significant risers among the forwards. Their established NHL production gives the Rangers and Kings alternatives that would substantially change the construction of those franchises.

Why It Matters

A re-draft is not simply an exercise in ranking players. It demonstrates how one decision near the top of a draft can influence an organisation for years.

Keeping Hughes at No. 1 preserves New Jersey’s franchise-centre foundation.

Moving Seider to Chicago gives the Blackhawks a defensive cornerstone.

Detroit choosing Caufield instead of Seider would create an entirely different roster identity, exchanging a foundational defenceman for one of the strongest goal scorers produced by the class.

Caufield is also one of the clearest examples of how draft projection can differ from eventual NHL value. He does not fall to No. 6 in this exercise. He rises from No. 15 to No. 6.

The defensive movement tells a similar story. Harley rises into the top four, Seider rises to No. 3, while Byram remains highly regarded but moves from his original No. 4 position to No. 8.

Draft position measures projection on one day. A re-draft measures what happened after development, opportunity and NHL performance supplied years of additional evidence.

Mini Q&A

Who remains the No. 1 pick?

Jack Hughes stays with New Jersey at No. 1 and remains the franchise centre of the 2019 class.

Where does Cole Caufield land?

Cole Caufield moves to Detroit at No. 6.

He was originally selected No. 15 overall by Montreal, meaning he rises nine positions in this re-draft.

What is Chicago’s biggest gain?

Chicago selects Moritz Seider at No. 3, adding a high-minute defenceman capable of anchoring the blue line.

Which defencemen move the most?

Moritz Seider rises from No. 6 to No. 3, while Thomas Harley climbs into the top four.

Bowen Byram moves down from his original No. 4 selection to No. 8.

Which forwards make notable jumps?

Matt Boldy moves to the Rangers at No. 2, Pavel Dorofeyev climbs to No. 5 for Los Angeles and Cole Caufield makes one of the largest jumps by moving from his actual No. 15 selection to No. 6.

IHM Final View

The 2019 NHL Draft looks considerably different with seven years of hindsight.

Jack Hughes remains the cornerstone at No. 1, but much of the order behind him changes.

Moritz Seider rises into Chicago’s No. 3 position. Thomas Harley moves into the top four. Cole Caufield makes a major jump from his actual No. 15 selection to Detroit at No. 6.

Bowen Byram remains inside the top 10 but moves from the No. 4 position where Colorado originally selected him to No. 8.

The exercise does not rewrite history. It demonstrates why draft evaluation continues long after draft night: projection starts the process, but development and NHL production eventually provide the evidence.

IHM NHL SHORT ICE - Top Stories in Minutes January 21, 2026 | IHM News

🏒 NHL SHORT ICE - All Key Stories in Minutes

January 21, 2026 | IHM News

Short hockey news for busy professionals who want the signal without stat overload.

🔥 Top Results and Momentum

Kings edge Rangers to end skid as Forsberg shines
Los Angeles snaps a four-game slide with a composed road win. Filip Forsberg stops 28 shots while Kevin Fiala adds a goal and an assist. Darcy Kuemper exits after an upper-body collision.

Devils keep rolling, edge Oilers
New Jersey continues its strong run as Gritsyuk and Glass each post a goal and an assist, giving the Devils four wins in their last five.

Jets power past Blues behind Scheifele
Mark Scheifele records three points and Josh Morrissey adds a goal and two assists as Winnipeg controls special teams and tempo.

Sabres hold off Predators as Helenius breaks through
Buffalo survives a tight finish with Helenius recording his first three NHL points. Nashville answers with multi-point nights but falls short.

Stars explode offensively, end Bruins streak
Dallas scores six to halt Boston’s six-game winning run, asserting pace early and protecting the middle late.

Senators hand Blue Jackets first loss under Bowness
Ottawa disrupts Columbus’ recent momentum with structured defense and timely counters.

Canadiens steal late win on Caufield dagger
Cole Caufield scores with 15 seconds remaining, flipping the result in the final moments.

📰 Top Headlines

Kuemper exits after collision
The Kings goalie leaves the game following contact, with status to be evaluated.

Panarin trade chatter intensifies
League observers outline potential landing spots as market questions grow.

Gibson stays hot with Red Wings
Detroit’s netminder continues a strong stretch in his first season with the club.

Toews receives another rousing Chicago ovation
Emotional scenes continue as the former captain’s return resonates.

Sharks add winger Sherwood
San Jose acquires forward depth from Vancouver amid roster reshaping.

Nichushkin held out by Avalanche
Colorado keeps the winger sidelined following a car accident.

Vegas emphasizes Andersson addition
Golden Knights management highlights blue-line stability before the break.

❓ IHM Q&A - NHL Short News (21 January 2026)

Why did the Kings’ win matter?
It combined steady goaltending with disciplined road structure to stop the slide.

What is driving New Jersey’s momentum?
Balanced scoring and improved defensive reads.

Why are the Jets trending upward?
Special teams execution and top-line efficiency.

What stands out in Buffalo’s result?
Young contributors delivering in pressure moments.

Why is the Panarin market noteworthy now?
Cap planning and contender needs are aligning midseason.

NHL Daily Recap – January 21, 2026 | IHM News

Chicago Blackhawks 3-4 New Jersey Devils (OT) – IHM Match Recap IHM

Chicago Blackhawks 3-4 New Jersey Devils (OT)

November 13, 2025 – Author: IHM News

Simon Nemec completed a statement night from the blue line with the overtime winner, lifting the New Jersey Devils to a 3-4 comeback victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

In a game where Chicago held three separate one-goal leads, New Jersey’s puck pressure and blue-line production eventually overwhelmed the hosts. The Devils generated a heavy 20-37 advantage in shots on goal and leaned on their top skill to claw back in the third period before Nemec finished the job in overtime.

Connor Bedard opened the scoring late in the first period on a power play, but from there Chicago were forced to defend for long stretches. New Jersey’s forecheck and quick neutral-zone transitions (fast counter-attacks off turnovers) slowly tilted the ice, and the Blackhawks’ defensive structure started to crack under volume.

Game Flow

Chicago struck first at 18:35 of the opening frame. Bedard found a soft spot in the right circle on the man advantage and one-timed a feed from Teuvo Teravainen, beating the goalie high glove for a 1-0 lead.

The Devils answered late in the second period. After sustained zone time, Nemec jumped into a shooting lane at the top of the umbrella and wired a low shot through traffic to tie the game 1-1 at 19:45. That goal came after New Jersey had already piled up a big shot edge but repeatedly missed on second-chance looks.

The third period turned into trading punches. Luke Slaggert restored Chicago’s lead at 3:05, finishing a rebound at the top of the crease for 2-1. Dawson Mercer responded at 10:13 when Jack Hughes attacked the middle, kicked the puck wide and Mercer ripped a shot short side to make it 2-2.

Sam Lafferty pushed the Blackhawks in front again at 13:34, converting a net-drive play for 3-2, but New Jersey would not go away. Nemec struck for his second of the night at 16:13, walking the blue line and snapping a shot through a layered screen to level things at 3-3 and force overtime.

In the extra frame, the Devils controlled most of the 3-on-3 possession. On the winning sequence, Hughes and Jesper Bratt circled high in the zone to draw coverage, slipped the puck back to Nemec in stride and the defenseman hammered home the OT winner at 3:26 for a 3-4 New Jersey victory and a hat trick from the back end.

Numbers & IHM Performance Metrics

Shots on goal: Blackhawks 20, Devils 37
Shooting percentage: Blackhawks 15% (3/20), Devils 10.81% (4/37)
Blocked shots: Blackhawks 7, Devils 13
Goaltender saves: Blackhawks 33 on 37 shots, Devils 17 on 20 shots
Penalties: Blackhawks 1 minor (2 PIM), Devils 3 minors (6 PIM)
Special teams: Chicago struck on the power play; New Jersey generated key momentum and at least one goal with the extra skater.
Ice tilt: Long stretches of 5-on-5 zone time for New Jersey, especially from late first period onward.

Team Notes

For Chicago, the positive is the finishing touch from their top forwards in limited looks, but the concern is how quickly they were pushed back into a passive defensive shell. The Blackhawks protected the middle of the ice for most of two periods, only to sag deeper in the third and allow too many point shots with traffic.

New Jersey will be very happy with the response from the back end. Nemec’s three-goal night underlines how comfortable the Devils are letting their defensemen activate in a modern four-man rush (four skaters jumping into offense). Hughes quietly drove the attack with multiple primary setups, and the Devils’ forecheck kept Chicago changing in its own zone.

Coach Mark comment

Chicago played a brave game but could not handle the Devils’ pace for 60 plus minutes. When you get outshot this badly, every breakdown becomes costly. New Jersey trusted their structure, kept feeding pucks back to the blue line and eventually their quality on the back end decided the game.

Questions & Answers | IHM Performance Metrics

Q: Why did Chicago lose despite leading three times in the game?
A: The Blackhawks were heavily outshot 20-37 and spent long shifts in their own zone. As fatigue set in, they started giving up clean looks from the points and failed to clear rebounds, which New Jersey converted late in the third period and in overtime.

Q: What was the key tactical edge for the Devils?
A: Their aggressive 5-man attack with defensemen joining the rush. Nemec repeatedly found space at the top of the zone, and New Jersey’s forwards did a good job screening and recovering loose pucks to extend possessions.

Q: How did special teams influence the result?
A: Chicago’s early power-play goal gave them momentum, but the Devils’ discipline improved after the first period. New Jersey’s own power-play execution and the pressure it created helped tilt the shot count and kept the Blackhawks on the back foot.

Q: What do the IHM Performance Metrics say about goaltending in this game?
A: Chicago’s goalie faced the heavier workload, stopping 33 of 37 shots, while New Jersey’s netminder made 17 saves on 20 attempts. The quality of chances was higher against Chicago, especially with layered screens and back-door threats, so the stat line is harsher on the home goalie than the raw save percentage suggests.

Q: What is the main takeaway for both teams going forward?
A: Chicago must find a way to manage the puck better when holding a lead and avoid slipping into a passive box in their own zone. New Jersey can build confidence from a comeback win driven by their blue line and should continue to lean on this high-tempo, possession-based style.

More NHL news on IHM

Utah Mammoth 5-2 Buffalo Sabres – NHL Game Recap | IHM News

NHL Status Report: Key Injury Updates Across the League

Date: November 8, 2025 | Author: IHM News

The NHL’s weekly status window opened with a wave of significant medical updates that will influence lineups across both conferences. From long-term absences in Pittsburgh to short-term concerns in Vancouver and major returns expected in Edmonton, teams are adjusting on the fly as they navigate the early stretch of the season.

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are monitoring the status of starter Thatcher Demko, who is considered questionable for this weekend due to what head coach Adam Foote described as “preventative maintenance.” Demko is 5-4-0 with a .912 save percentage and has been handling a heavy workload.

“He’s such a strong leader. If he feels he needs a couple days to reset, we trust him,” Foote said.

Vancouver recalled goaltender Jiri Patera from Abbotsford under emergency conditions ahead of matchups with Columbus and Colorado.

New York Rangers

Center Vincent Trocheck traveled with the team to Detroit but missed his 13th straight game while continuing to skate in a non-contact jersey. Trocheck remains eligible to come off long-term injured reserve and is considered day-to-day.

Defenseman Urho Vaakanainen remains sidelined with a lower-body issue.

Forward Jaroslav Chmelar made his NHL debut Friday, logging 6:27 of ice time against Detroit.

Carolina Hurricanes

Defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere has been placed on injured reserve retroactive to Oct. 28. After returning briefly for a game against Vegas, he exited after the first period and has missed the last four contests. Rod Brind’Amour confirmed the injury is located in the midsection.

San Jose Sharks

Rookie forward Michael Misa was placed on injured reserve and is officially week-to-week with a lower-body injury. Misa has missed San Jose’s last two games, including their recent 2-1 win over Winnipeg. The 2025 No. 2 draft pick has three points in seven appearances, though his early NHL journey has already included healthy scratches and lineup experimentation.

San Jose also moved William Eklund to injured reserve and recalled forward Zack Ostapchuk from AHL affiliate San Jose. The Sharks continue their homestand Saturday against the Florida Panthers.

Edmonton Oilers

Forward Zach Hyman will not dress for Saturday’s clash with the Colorado Avalanche but is expected to make his season debut within the next week, according to head coach Kris Knoblauch. Hyman has been ramping up his on-ice work since late October and appears close to a full return from the wrist dislocation suffered during last season’s Western Conference Final.

Knoblauch also noted that Mattias Janmark is nearing a return as well, potentially “within days.” The Oilers anticipate both forwards rejoining the squad over the upcoming seven-game road stretch.

New Jersey Devils

Defenseman Dougie Hamilton remains under evaluation for a lower-body injury sustained in Thursday’s overtime win against Montreal. Hamilton exited in the second period and did not return.

New Jersey is already without defenseman Brett Pesce, who has missed five games with an upper-body issue. Brenden Dillon acknowledged the challenge:

“Guys are going to get more minutes, more responsibility. These stretches test your blue line.”

Colton White skated on the third pair during practice and is an option for Saturday’s game against Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins absorbed a major blow with the announcement that forward Filip Hallander will miss a minimum of three months after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his leg. Hallander had produced four points (1 goal, 3 assists) in 13 games and was off to one of the most confident starts of his NHL career.

Head coach Dan Muse addressed the media with a somber tone.

“This goes beyond hockey. We’re just grateful the medical staff identified the issue quickly. Now the priority is his long-term health.”

Hallander will remain under the care of the team’s medical department and specialists from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Coach Mark Comment

Injury waves tilt the season fast. The teams that manage depth and rotation survive November with real momentum. Pittsburgh losing Hallander is tough, but their structure can absorb minutes if they stay disciplined through the middle third. Vancouver’s handling of Demko is smart load management. Edmonton getting Hyman back is the biggest needle-mover of all. His timing and net-drive reshape their offensive layers.

IHM NEWS: Kaprizov leads Wild past Islanders 5-2; Zuccarello logs assist in season debut

Devils rally late, defeat Canadiens 4-3 in OT to stay perfect at home | IHM News

Date: November 7, 2025 | Author: IHM News

Devils stun Canadiens late, stay perfect at home with 4-3 OT win

Bratt wins it on a breakaway in OT, Meier ties it with 1:07 left, New Jersey becomes first team to reach 10 wins

NEWARK, N.J. – The New Jersey Devils proved again why they’re one of the toughest teams in the league to close out. Down 3-2 late in the third, they surged back behind Timo Meier’s clutch equalizer with just 1:07 remaining, then sealed a dramatic 4-3 OT victory over the Montreal Canadiens when Jesper Bratt scored on a breakaway at 1:33 of overtime.

New Jersey moved to 10-4-0, becoming the first team in the NHL to hit 10 wins this season. They also remain perfect at home (6-0-0). Bratt finished with one goal and one assist, and Jack Hughes added two assists. Jacob Markstrom made 16 saves.

“Coming in with speed, trying to read the goalie – that’s my comfort zone,” Bratt said.

Montreal pushes back but falters late
Rookie goalie Jakub Dobes made 24 saves but was emotional postgame, blaming himself for the loss. Noah Dobson defended him, calling him a competitor with high battle level. Montreal goals came from Kirby Dach, Jake Evans, and Oliver Kapanen.

Key moments
– 1:53: Cody Glass opened scoring for New Jersey with a far-side wrister. – 2:59: Montreal tied it 1-1 on a deflection off Dach. – 8:05: Ondrej Palat scored his first of the season on a setup by Simon Nemec. – Early 3rd: Evans and Kapanen scored to make it 3-2 Montreal. – 18:53: Meier tied it from a crease scramble. – OT: Bratt scored the winner on a breakaway.

Coach Mark comment
New Jersey’s resilience is tactical, not lucky. Their recovery shifts were disciplined, their neutral-zone spacing tightened throughout the game, and their puck pressure late in the third overwhelmed Montreal’s exits. Bratt’s OT goal came from layered speed and perfect read on the goalie. This is a team that understands momentum and seizes it.

Ducks extend win streak to 5 with 7-5 comeback over Stars | IHM News

Markstrom Turns Away 43 as Devils Silence Kings 4-1 | IHM News

By IHM Team | IHM News | November 2, 2025

Markstrom Turns Away 43 as Devils Silence Kings 4-1

Mercer scores twice shorthanded, Halonen nets first NHL goal, New Jersey perfect on the kill

LOS ANGELES. Jacob Markstrom was the difference. The New Jersey goalie stopped 43 shots and iced a 4-1 road win over the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. The performance arrived one day after Markstrom signed a two-year, $12M extension that starts in 2026-27.

Dawson Mercer struck twice shorthanded in the third period, Nico Hischier opened the scoring on a Luke Hughes point shot, and Brian Halonen beat Darcy Kuemper glove side for his first NHL goal. New Jersey snapped a two-game skid and moved to 9-3-0. The Devils killed all four Kings power plays and turned the game with their penalty kill.

Los Angeles saw a seven-game point streak end. Andrei Kuzmenko scored their lone goal from the low slot off an Anze Kopitar feed. Kuemper finished with 18 saves. The Kings remain winless at home this season.

What decided it

Goaltending: Markstrom’s 43 saves included multiple high-danger stops in the second and a clean OT-kill stand late.
Special teams: New Jersey went 4-for-4 on the kill and scored twice shorthanded through Mercer.
Starts and answers: Hischier’s redirect at 1:22 set the tone. When LA pushed, Mercer’s second closed the door into an empty net.

Milestones and notes

Luke Hughes recorded his 100th NHL point on Hischier’s tip.
Brian Halonen scored his first NHL goal and point in his 12th career game.
The Kings fell to 0-3-2 at home.

Coach Mark: Markstrom owned the blue paint tonight. The kill was connected, sticks in lanes, quick exits, and Mercer read the ice like a veteran. That combination wins playoff games.

Jacob Markstrom, Devils news, New Jersey Devils, NHL contracts, NHL signings, NHL extensions, Markstrom contract, Devils goalie, NHL goalie news, hockey news today

Devils sign Jacob Markstrom to 2-year, $12M contract | IHM News

Markstrom signs 2-year, $12 million contract with Devils

By IHM Team · IHM News | November 01, 2025

Goaltender in 2nd season with New Jersey, could have become unrestricted free agent after season

Jacob Markstrom has signed a two-year, $12 million contract with the New Jersey Devils.

It has an average annual value of $6 million and begins with the 2026-27 season.

The 35-year-old goalie is 2-2-0 with a 5.13 goals-against average and .830 save percentage in four games this season. After being injured in a 3-2 win against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Oct. 13, Markstrom returned for Tuesday’s 8-4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche, making 34 saves on 42 shots.

Markstrom was 26-16-6 with a 2.50 goals-against average, .900 save percentage and four shutouts in 49 games for the Devils last season, his first with the team after being acquired in a trade on June 19, 2024.

He is in the final year of a six-year, $36 million contract ($6 million AAV) he signed with the Calgary Flames on Oct. 9, 2020, and could have become an unrestricted free agent after the season.

A second-round pick by the Florida Panthers in the 2008 NHL Draft (No. 31), Markstrom is 243-214-63 with a 2.72 GAA, .908 save percentage and 24 shutouts in 538 regular-season games (520 starts) for the Panthers, Vancouver Canucks, Flames and Devils and 14-17 with a 2.88 GAA, .911 save percentage and two shutouts in 31 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Coach Mark comment

For New Jersey this is about floor and predictability. Markstrom’s technique and size still give you NHL-level starts, and a 2-year horizon at $6M AAV is a controllable bridge while the pipeline matures. Usage and load management will decide the value.

Sharks Blitz Early, Handle Devils 5-2 | IHM News