Devils look for a quick start against the Capitals | PREVIEW

MORNING SKATE REVIEW

NEWARK, NJ – When the Devils face the Washington Capitals, they will be without forward Tomas Tatar. Head coach Sheldon Keefe said before the game that the winger was in action and would not be available tonight. Tatar played just 3:04 in the first period Friday night against Detroit. In Tatar’s absence, Shane Bowers moves into the lineup.

In other lineup news, Jake Allen will start against the Capitals, while Jacob Markstrom anchored the Devils to a win over the Red Wings on Friday night.

Known enemy

Tonight is the fourth game between these teams in the last month and a half. Keefe discussed what New Jersey learned about Washington this season.

“We learned that they are a very good team,” Keefe said. “Very good in all aspects of her game. Offensively, they stress you in a variety of ways in the rushing and offensive zone and are a resilient group. They were never out of the game, they found ways to get wins, similar to our game last night, they had a lot of games like that. It will require a full effort of 60 minutes.”

New Jersey will be looking to get off to a strong start against Washington as part of their game plan, as the Devils have yet to score against the Capitals this season.

“We have to get to our game early,” head coach Sheldon Keefe said before the game. “We played well in a lot of games and found ways to win, but it took us too long to get there. We just have to play the way we play when we’re playing well, but start early.”

Hockey Fights Cancer 2024

The Devils are celebrating their annual Hockey Fights Cancer Night presented by RWJBarnabas Health. Earlier this week the team welcomed this year’s honoree Theo, who got to be with the team on a game day and get the full experience.

“It was great to welcome Theo,” Keefe said. “I think our guys are excited to be able to give him a moment, give him some time to look inside himself and recognize the struggle he’s in. But to see him come in with a smile on his face is very. “I’m excited to see the guys and watch our practice and come here and enjoy the game night experience. Give him a little respite from the night he’s currently living through, and since there’s perspective, we’ll get something out of it too.

“I think it’s one of the many great initiatives that the NHL is doing and that the teams and players are embracing.”