The Devils will play their final preseason game against the New York Islanders. And they’ll be using essentially their regular-season opening roster. So this will be a first opportunity for this whole group to get some game action and reps in before the real thing starts.
“It’s our first dress rehearsal you could say,” center Cody Glass said. “We want to communicate, have some fun out there. The real thing starts soon. Us coming together and being a team again is always fun to do.”
“First time playing together with most of us,” defenseman Brett Pesce said. “Just looking to get chemistry off the hop. This game is important to get the systems ready, feed off of guys. Guys haven’t played together, just practice. Getting an extra game and more reps is important to hit the ground running.”
It’s not just a chance for the players to work out some kinks in their game and systems, but also for the coaching staff – featuring three new members on the bench – to get a flow of its own.
“New coaching staff on our bench as well with a couple new guys,” head coach Sheldon Keefe said. “A chance to have the group together. Them finding their rhythm but me as a coach to find the rhythm of the ice time, the way the game flows. It’s all good. The guys have done a nice job of putting in the work to get to this point. Obviously, our final preseason game before we turn the page and get to work for real, recognizing that you’re in preparation mode.”
