Devils Seek Redemption in Chicago After Struggles

CHICAGO, IL — The New Jersey Devils (37-28-7) kick off a crucial three-game road trip tonight against the struggling Chicago Blackhawks (21-41-9) at 7:30 p.m. ET. The game, broadcast on TNT, comes as New Jersey looks to break a three-game losing streak that has tested their playoff aspirations.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that forward Cody Glass will not be joining the team in Chicago. Glass, acquired during the Trade Deadline, has made an immediate impact since his arrival but is absent as the team battles through injuries. Keefe noted there’s potential for Glass to rejoin the lineup during the trip.

“Obviously, Glasser has played well for us,” Keefe said. “It’s a loss, but it’s a chance for other guys to step up. We have lots of bodies here to fill in.”

In a positive development, Keefe announced the return of Curtis Lazar and Nathan Bastian to the lineup, which indicates a boost in the team’s competitiveness. Additionally, defenseman Simon Nemec, who sat out the last two games, will return on defense, replacing Dennis Cholowski.

“I think the time is right for Nemec,” Keefe said. “He’s ready to contribute as we aim for a strong finish to the season.”

The Devils, holding onto third place in the Metropolitan Division, are attempting to regain momentum as they enter the final segment of their regular season. Captain Nico Hischier is a key player for New Jersey, currently on a streak with seven goals in his last seven games.

Hischier stated the importance of the upcoming games, saying, “We know we need to be more consistent over 60 minutes. It’s crucial for our performance as we step toward the playoffs.”

As they look to capitalize on this road trip, the Devils have relied on veteran Ondrej Palat to bring leadership and calmness to the team. “We’re in a good spot right now, but we need to treat this stretch as vital,” Palat said. “It’s about approaching these games with the right mindset and effort.”

In their last outing, the Devils fell to the Vancouver Canucks 4-3 in a shootout, a disappointing finish after leading for much of the game. Despite the setback, New Jersey holds a seven-point cushion over competitors such as the New York Islanders and New York Rangers.

On the other hand, the Blackhawks are aiming to build on their recent 7-4 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. Standout forward Connor Bedard continues to shine with 56 points this season, while Ryan Donato has emerged as a scoring threat, tallying a career-high 25 goals.

“I have confidence in myself, and it’s exciting to be contributing,” Donato said after their last game. “We just need to carry that momentum forward.”

As the teams prepare for puck drop, the Devils look to secure a sweep against the Blackhawks this season, having won their previous meeting 4-1 in December, led by a remarkable third-period comeback. This evening’s game will be pivotal for both teams as they navigate their contrasting paths towards the playoffs.