The New Jersey Devils are getting their second day off since training camp opened today. Yesterday, they lost both games in split squad action. Despite the losses, the showing out of New Jersey at least saw a few silver linings. We elaborate on that in the links below.
Also in the links, some news on a potential extension for Jacob Markstrom, and Sheldon Keefe talks about the 3C role.
Elsewhere, a young Devils defenseman is eyeing the Olympics, Toronto commits to their goaltender, and Sasha Barkov’s replacement.
Let’s do that hockey.
Devils Trade Rumors & News
New Jersey Hockey Now: Will Dawson Mercer fill a center role in 2025-26? The Devils have a void at 3C after Erik Haula was traded to the Nashville Predators. And although there are suitors in training camp for the role, Mercer may very well be the best option. Head coach, Sheldon Keefe, answers the question.
Even More: The Devils lost both of their split squad games on Sunday. They were blanked by the Ottawa Senators in Quebec, but lost in a shootout, 3-2, in Newark. Shane Lachance made his preseason debut, and he’s going to be a BIG problem.
NHL.com: In an interview with NHL.com, Simon Nemec say’s he has a goal in mind. Yes, he wants to make the Devils’ blueline full-time after a disappointing 2024-25, although it ended quite well. And he’s on track, with a strong showing in the preseason. However, he also has gold in his sights, looking to help Slovakia reach new heights at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now
Sportsnet: The Toronto Maple Leafs have their goaltender. They inked Anthony Stolarz to a four-year extension on Sunday, committing to the breakout netminder.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: After experiencing Marc-Andre Fleury’s Pittsburgh Penguins welcome back party, could Evgeni Malkin be more open to being traded? And more specifically, to the Florida Panthers?
Florida Hockey Now: In the wake of Sasha Barkov potentially being lost for the season after having right knee surgery, the Florida Panthers are looking for some heroes. Evan Rodrigues is that man.
San Jose Hockey Now: Ex-Devils defenseman, Shakir Mukhamadullin, had season ending surgery last year. Now, the San Jose Sharks blueliner is healthy, and explains what stands out about Dmitry Orlov as a mentor.
