The New Jersey Devils opened their 2026-27 preseason against the New York Islanders on Sunday, September 20th. With fewer preseason games this year, players face increased pressure to secure spots on the opening night roster.
After a penalty-filled first period where the score remained 0-0, the Islanders took the lead with a power-play goal early in the second. The Devils answered three minutes later, tying the game. The decisive goal came in the final period, giving the Devils a 2-1 victory.
Utica Captain Scores the Preseason's First Goal
Ryan Schmelzer netted the Devils' first preseason goal. Ethan Edwards controlled the puck in the offensive zone, passing to Ben Steeves at center ice. Steeves skated into the Devils' zone and fed Schmelzer, who beat Vitek Vanecek for the goal.
Schmelzer captains the AHL's Utica Comets, a role he's held since joining the team in the 2021-22 season. Last season, he recorded 27 points in 66 games for Utica and aims to improve offensively this season.
Brown Scores the Game-Winner
With the score tied after two periods, Connor Brown stole the puck in the third period, generating a breakaway. He beat Vanecek to secure the win for New Jersey.
Brown played right wing on the top line with Cody Glass and Amadeus Lombardi. The trio logged significant ice time, with Lombardi playing 20:39, Glass 20:22, and Brown 18:58. Coach Sheldon Keefe noted that Lombardi is adapting to new responsibilities, including playing left wing and on the penalty kill.
Rittich Solid in Net
David Rittich made his Devils debut and performed well. He stopped all Islanders' shots in the first period, including multiple power-play opportunities. In total, he made 23 saves on 24 shots.
Signed during free agency, Rittich most recently played for the Islanders. His addition is a strategic move for New Jersey, aiming for a strong three-goaltender rotation. Following Jacob Markstrom's offseason departure, Rittich's performance suggests he will be a valuable asset.
Devils Play a Back-to-Back
The Devils' next preseason game is Monday, September 21st, against the New York Rangers. With a condensed preseason schedule, the team needs to quickly finalize its opening night roster.
