The upcoming preseason encounter between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers is poised to be a revealing spectacle. While the Devils are deploying a roster primarily composed of seasoned NHL players, offering a clear view of their potential regular-season lineup, the Rangers are opting for a squad dominated by AHL talent. This contrast in team composition sets the stage for a unique dynamic, with the Devils seeking to fine-tune their strategies and combinations, and the Rangers' prospects aiming to make a lasting impression.
New Jersey Devils Prepare for Preseason Showdown Against New York Rangers
On Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET, hockey enthusiasts will turn their attention to a compelling preseason matchup between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers. This game, broadcast on MSGSN, DAZN/Gotham Sports Streaming, and Devils Hockey Radio, marks a significant moment for the Devils, who are fielding an almost complete NHL roster. Unlike their previous game against the New York Islanders, where a majority of players were AHL-bound, this contest will feature a lineup primarily consisting of players who competed in the NHL last season. Notably, Mikael Diotte, an AHL player with eight points in 53 games last season, is the only non-NHL regular on the Devils' roster. Other AHL players, Topias Vilen and Marc McLaughlin, had brief stints with the Devils last season, playing two and seven games respectively. With three full NHL lines and two defensive pairings, the Devils are expected to demonstrate a high level of play. The goaltending duties will be split between Jake Allen and Nico Daws. Allen is slated to play one period, indicating that the team's management sees him as a seasoned veteran preparing for the regular season. Daws, on the other hand, will receive more ice time, suggesting he has more to prove to solidify his position. This game could provide crucial insights into the Devils' long-term goaltending plans.
Conversely, the New York Rangers are adopting a different strategy, presenting a roster heavy with AHL players and younger prospects. Among them are former Devils Dennis Cholowski and Justin Dowling, alongside promising talents like Adam Sykora and Liam Greentree, who was acquired in the Artemi Panarin trade. The Rangers' lineup, featuring players such as Dylan Roobroeck, Anton Blidh, and Matt Rempe, suggests a physical game, with these individuals often relying on sheer determination and tenacity to carve out their paths to the NHL. The Devils will need to maintain their composure and focus on their game plan, avoiding unnecessary engagements with a Rangers team eager to disrupt and assert their presence through grit rather than skill. The Devils' coaching staff will be keen to observe the chemistry among their top six forwards, including newcomers Anthony Mantha and Luke Evangelista. It remains to be seen whether these top lines will receive the most ice time or if the Rodigues and McLaughlin lines will be more heavily utilized. A particularly intense roster battle is expected on the fourth line, where Stefan Noesen and Jesper Boqvist are vying for the 12th or 13th forward spot. The outcome of this competition, potentially influenced by the front office's decision on carrying two or three goalies, will be critical in determining who makes the final roster and who is reassigned to Utica. This intense internal competition could lead to a surprisingly high-energy performance from the fourth line.
This game serves as a crucial barometer for the New Jersey Devils, allowing them to assess their team's readiness and evaluate individual performances under near-NHL conditions. For fans, it's an exciting opportunity to witness the potential of the upcoming season and gain early insights into the team's strategic direction and roster decisions. The disparity in experience between the two teams offers a unique lens through which to view the balance of skill versus sheer determination in preseason hockey.
