Devils vs. Hurricanes: A Rematch with Something to Prove
The New Jersey Devils open their 2025-26 regular season with a familiar challenge Thursday night. A matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, the same team that ended their playoff run last year. That sting still lingers, and there’s no better way to make a statement than by winning against Carolina right out of the gate. The Devils’ preseason was a mix of highs and lows, but this is their first real test to show that the growth and adjustments have paid off. The Hurricanes bring their well-known speed and structure, so New Jersey will definitely need to match that energy every period if they want to start this season strong.
Cody Glass and Seamus Casey are two players to keep a close eye on in this opener. Glass, one of the team’s newer faces, has a chance to immediately prove his worth and bring added offensive depth down the middle. Meanwhile, Casey has been impressive throughout training camp and preseason with his defense and puck-moving abilities that will be key in neutralizing Carolina’s aggressive offense. Both players will be looking to carve out permanent roles in the lineup, and this game offers the perfect stage to do so.
Strategically, this matchup promises to be fast-paced from both sides. The Devils thrive on quick transitions and creative offensive play, but to win, they’ll need to tighten their defensive structure and stay disciplined in their own zone. Carolina’s offense can punish mistakes, and New Jersey’s young defense will be tested early. Goaltending will also play a huge factor, as steady play between the pipes could be the difference-maker in a high-tempo contest.
For the Devils, this first game is about proving that they’re ready to be serious contenders. A win against the team that knocked them out of the playoffs early would send a powerful message: that this version of the Devils is more experienced, better prepared, and hungry to go further this season. Even though it’s only the first game of the season, the tone they set here could echo all the way through the months ahead. This game against the Hurricanes will give the Devils a chance to show that the lessons from the playoffs have turned into this year’s strength. If the Devils can channel that motivation into a statement win on Thursday, it could mark the beginning of something special on their road to redemption.
