New Jersey Devils Face Buffalo Sabres in Czechia in NHL Global Series Opener

NEW JERSEY DEVILS (0-0-0) VS. BUFFALO SABRES (0-0-0)

The New Jersey Devils are commencing their 2024-25 NHL season with a match against the Buffalo Sabres at the O2 Arena in Prague, Czechia, as part of the NHL Global Series. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on MSGSN, and fans can also listen in via the Devils Hockey Network.

The Devils engaged in an optional morning skate session, which took place in the O2 Arena. Notably absent from skating were center Jack Hughes and head coach Sheldon Keefe. Players practiced without line rushes, but their lineup had been examined in previous practice sessions, featuring pairings such as Meier – Hughes – Bratt and Dillon – Hamilton in the defense.

Among the highlights for the Devils in this game, defenseman Seamus Casey is set to make his NHL debut. Casey, the 20-year-old 2022 second-round pick, is expected to join the team on the ice tonight. “Ever since you pick up a hockey stick for the first time, this is what you work for,” Casey stated. “I’m really excited, and I’m trying to treat it like just another hockey game.” Casey has shown impressive form during the training camp, solidifying his position for this debut.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe discussed the rigorous training camp regimen, which included four games in six nights and several injury challenges. “We had the four games in six nights, we could only use certain guys in certain situations,” Keefe outlined, referring to the strategy used in light of surgeries and injuries experienced by key players like Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Simon Nemec.

Another notable factor in the Devils’ camp has been the performance of Jesper Bratt, about whom Keefe remarked, “You have a perception of him as a player. Of course, he’s an elite player and does great things on the ice. But how he conducts himself on a daily basis is beyond impressive. He’s a true professional in every regard.”

The preseason records for both teams varied considerably due to their overseas match preparations. The Devils were winless in their North American matches, while the Sabres maintained an undefeated streak, including a victory over the Munich Red Bulls by a comfortable score of 5-0. JJ Peterka emerged as a key player for the Sabres, amassing three goals and five points over two games.

The Devils’ anticipated lineup features Meier and Hughes prominently, with Meier having scored 28 goals and Jesper Bratt leading in assists with 56 the previous season. As the teams clash to open the season in Czechia, fans will be keenly observing the performance and adaptation of these players on the international stage.

The Devils have announced several injuries, including Brett Pesce (leg), Luke Hughes (shoulder), and Santeri Hatakka (undisclosed). Meanwhile, the Sabres have reported Jacob Johnson dealing with a lower body issue.

As the puck drops, the excitement surrounding the NHL Global Series in Prague focuses on these traditional teams taking center stage in European ice hockey arenas.