Devils Daily

Devils Daily: Key RFA Absences; Injuries Revealed, Bruins GM Calls BS

Published

6 months ago

September 19, 2024

New Jersey Devils center Dawson Mercer (91) celebrates with teammates after scoring during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Chicago Blackhawks in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

The players hit the ice today, and there are A LOT of players on the New Jersey Devils’ training camp roster. In fact, there is 11 more bodies this September as opposed to last. That’s likely because of the Devils’ travel plans — heading to Prague in a few short weeks ahead of the Global Series — which requires the extra personnel.

However, as of this moment, there remains the distinct possibility that the Devils could be traveling to Czechia missing a key forward who has yet to report to training camp. More on that in the links.

Also in the links, storylines we’re watching, and a vow of confidence in a Devils rival forward.

Elsewhere, training camps opened up yesterday all around the NHL, revealing a number of storylines. For instance, key injuries in Buffalo, Washington, and Pittsburgh, a failure to report in Vegas, and Boston’s GM — who didn’t mince any words when calling out the rumormongers.

Let’s do that hockey.

Devils News

New Jersey Hockey Now: As we reported on Tuesday, there was progress between the Devils and Dawson Mercer on a new contract. However, it was also revealed that despite the progress, things still weren’t close. As a result, the Devils will begin training camp without the 22-year-old forward.

More NJHN: Mercer’s absence aside, there will be 68 players at training camp today, composed of 40 forwards, 20 defensemen and eight goaltenders on the Devils’ training camp roster.

Even More: And with on-ice activities kicking off today, here are three Devils storylines NJHNs Nick Natale is keeping an eye on at training camp.

Eyes on the Metro: The Devils clearly made the right choice in the 2019 NHL Draft when they selected Jack Hughes first overall. They could have went with Kaapo Kakko instead, who — at the time — was considered a potential first overall selection. He’s struggled to find his footing, but the New York Rangers GM, Chris Drury, issued a vow of confidence in the Finnish forward earlier this week.

New Jersey Hockey Now +

Subscribe to NJHN+ and use code James10 for 10% off (yearly subscriptions) at checkout.

NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

DailyFaceoff: Insider Frank Seravalli has learned that the Vegas Golden Knights are exploring what options they have after goaltender Robin Lehner failed to report for a mandatory medical examination. Contract termination is on the table.

Sportsnet: When Mitch Marner was asked about his contract status as a pending unrestricted free agent, he turned the question aside and explained he and the Toronto Maple Leafs won’t be talking about the negotiations.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Day one of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ training camp revealed that defenseman Erik Karlsson is injured and where the new guys could line up.

Boston Hockey Now: Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney shoots down false Jeremy Swayman rumors, calling out Paul Bissonette specifically, amid the contract dispute between team and player.

Colorado Hockey Now: Valeri Nichuskin was a hot topic during media day with the Colorado Avalanche. It sounds like the Avs are prepared to welcome Nichuskin back with open arms, despite the off-ice issues.

Florida Hockey Now: Carter Verhaeghe, a pivotal player for the defending Stanley Cup Champions and a pending unrestricted free agent, explained on Wednesday he wants to remain with the Florida Panthers.

Philly Hockey Now: Former NHLer Adam Clendening had some advice to offer regarding the anticipated sparks between Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella and rookie Matvei Michkov.

Washington Hockey Now: The Washington Capitals revealed on Wednesday that following a medical examination, veteran forward T.J. Oshie will be on the long-term injured reserve in 2024-25.

Chicago Hockey Now: The Chicago Blackhawks made an excellent choice in naming forward Nick Foligno captain on Wednesday.

Buffalo Hockey Now: An injury to Rasmus Dahlin highlighted an intense day one under Lindy Ruff for the Buffalo Sabres.

For more Devils news, visit New Jersey Hockey Now and like our Facebook page.