New Jersey Devils: 5 Dates to Circle with New Schedule Released

After what many consider to be a successful season for the New Jersey Devils, anticipation for the 2023-2024 campaign is at an all-time high with plenty of optimism following the NHL’s recent release of the regular season schedule for all 32 teams. With 2022-23 seeing New Jersey record their best record in franchise history at 52-22-8, fans are eager to get back to the Prudential Center to watch their favorite team contend for the Stanley Cup.

Stars like Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier and Dougie Hamilton are returning, and young neophytes like Luke Hughes and Simon Nemec are on the way up. There is no excuse not to be excited for Devils hockey! The NHL and the Devils announced the schedule Tuesday, and it’s an exciting one to say the least.

Everyone is still waiting for an announcement regarding Timo Meier re-signing for the team, but for now, here are five dates that need to be circled for the upcoming season of Devils hockey.

New Jersey Devils vs. Detroit Red Wings, October 12th 7:00 PM

While Devils fans may not be fond of last season’s home opener against Detroit following a 5-2 loss and some ‘Fire Lindy’ chants, Coach Ruff’s squad will have a chance at redemption on this upcoming opening night.

Last year, Detroit finished with an underwhelming record of 35-37-10 and failed to make the playoffs for a 7th consecutive season. Additionally, ‘Motor City’ will pick 9th in the NHL draft as they continue to try and develop some young core. They are likely not done adding, with rumors saying they could add Alex DeBrincat. This might be his first game in red.

In three matchups last season New Jersey had the edge over Detroit with a 2-1-0 record against them. The road team was victorious in the trio of matchups, and the Devils had a goal differential of +5.

Dougie Hamilton was a player who looked forward to these matchups every time and led all players on both teams with six points across all three games (4 goals, 2 assists). Jesper Bratt found himself with a pair of both goals and assists as well.

To be honest, the Red Wings are a team that the Devils should be able to handle pretty easily for years to come, and while on any other night this wouldn’t be a matchup to watch, how can you not acknowledge both the home and season opener as one of the more exciting moments to come?

Is it October yet?