NEWARK—In a significant shakeup ahead of the playoffs, the New Jersey Devils are making numerous lineup changes for their final game of the regular season against the Detroit Red Wings on April 16, 2025. The most notable news is the return of Dougie Hamilton, who has made a quicker-than-expected recovery from injury and will take the ice tonight. Hamilton, initially projected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks, will be paired with Brenden Dillon as the Devils prepare for the postseason.
However, the excitement of Hamilton's return is tempered by the absence of several key players. Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed that Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, Stefan Noesen, Timo Meier, Ondrej Palat (injury), Luke Hughes, Brett Pesce, Johnathan Kovacevic, and Jacob Markstrom will not dress for this crucial matchup. Adding to the list, Paul Cotter is serving the final game of his suspension, leaving the Devils with a depleted roster.
In goal, Nico Daws will start, with Jake Allen backing him up. Daws was recalled from the Utica Comets earlier on Wednesday, along with Mike Hardman, as the Devils look to solidify their lineup despite the absences. This game marks a pivotal moment for Daws, who will be under pressure to deliver against a determined Red Wings team.
One bright spot for the Devils is Dawson Mercer, who will extend his Iron Man streak to 328 consecutive games. Mercer has played all 82 games in each of his first four seasons, showcasing his durability and commitment to the team.
While Hamilton’s presence is a boost, the Devils are also counting on a mix of forwards to step up. Erik Haula, Tomas Tatar, Nolan Foote, Cody Glass, Marc McLoughlin, and Nathan Bastian are all set to remain in the lineup. On defense, Brian Dumoulin, Simon Nemec, and Seamus Casey are likely to play, with potential returns for Dennis Cholowski, Justin Dowling, Curtis Lazar, Kurtis MacDermid, and Daniel Sprong.
As the Devils face the Red Wings, the stakes may not be high in terms of playoff positioning, but the team is eager to end the regular season on a high note. The game is being broadcast nationally on TNT and FanDuel Sports Network, with streaming available on MAX and audio coverage on Devils Hockey Radio, starting at 7:30 PM ET.
The atmosphere is electric as fans gather for what could be a pivotal moment in the Devils' season. Despite the changes, the team's spirit remains high as they prepare for the upcoming Stanley Cup Playoffs. Keefe's decision to rest top players indicates a strategic focus on ensuring they are fresh and ready for the playoffs.
As the game unfolds, the Devils trail the Red Wings 1-0 early in the first period. The Devils' strategy to rest many of their regulars raises questions about their readiness for the playoffs, but the coaching staff seems confident in the abilities of the remaining players to step up.
With the playoffs looming, every game counts, and the Devils will be looking to build momentum, even in the face of adversity. The excitement of Hamilton’s return and Mercer’s impressive streak adds to the narrative as the team heads into the postseason.
As fans tune in to watch the game, they are reminded of the resilience and determination that has characterized the Devils this season. The team has shown that they can overcome challenges, and tonight's game is just another opportunity to prove their mettle.
In conclusion, the New Jersey Devils are making a bold statement as they prepare for the playoffs. With lineup changes, key player absences, and the return of Dougie Hamilton, the team is focused on closing out the regular season strong. As the final game unfolds, all eyes will be on the Devils as they aim to solidify their position heading into the postseason.
