The New Jersey Devils are set to continue their seven-game homestand, hosting the Calgary Flames. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:12 p.m. ET Thursday night at Prudential Center.
Markstrom to Start in Goal
The Devils held a morning skate at Prudential Center in preparation for the game against the Calgary Flames. All players were present on the ice, with the exception of goaltender Jacob Markstrom.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that Markstrom would be starting in goal this evening. According to Keefe, Markstrom was given the option to skip the morning skate, as “He doesn’t love to skate on mornings of games,” and he chose to do so.
Devils’ Lineup Changes
The Devils have opted to switch up their lines, flipping Jesper Bratt and Arseny Gritsyuk. Bratt is set to reunite with Jack Hughes, while Gritsyuk will play alongside Cody Glass and Lenni Hameenaho.
Cody Glass commented on the changes, saying, “It’s a little bit of an adjustment but we played with Gritsyuk for a while, so we know what he is. It’s a little bit different but at the end of the day communication is key.” Glass also noted the growth he’s observed in Hameenaho, particularly on the defensive side.
The team’s workflow is expected to be as follows:
- Meier – Hischier – Mercer
- Bratt – Hughes – Brown
- Gritsyuk – Glass – Hameenaho
- Cotter – Bjugstad – Tsyplakov
On defence, the workflow is expected to be:
- Siegenthaler – Hamilton
- Hughes – Kovacevic
- Dillon – Nemec
Devils Utilise Practice Time
The Devils have had a three-day break since their last game, using the time for two practices and a full morning skate. The team has been able to get some good practice time.
Keefe noted the benefit of the recent practice schedule. “The last couple days, two practices in a row, you can address a couple different things and build and progress. That’s really hard to do with the typical schedule wh8chis around the corner and coming back to reality. I think that’s made a difference in how we’ve been able to play.”
Keefe’s Assessment of the Flames
Keefe shared his thoughts on the Calgary Flames. “They play a smart game, work hard. They’re missing some guys and made some moves. They’re missing some of the top-end skill that a lot of teams have. Lots of depth throughout their lineup. You have to be prepared to play, execute and play well.”
He also acknowledged their recent performance, saying, “Watching the pre-scout, they handled Carolina quite easily at home just last week. You have to be ready with how they play and what they’re capable of, like any team in the NHL.”
The Devils saw their four-game win streak end three days ago.