It might just be the second week in the NHL season, but there are already a lot of big games teams need to win. Tonight’s matchup between the New Jersey Devils and New York Islanders is a big game for both sides.
The New Jersey Devils are trying to prove they are one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference once again. The Islanders, on the other hand, are looking to show they still are a playoff team in the Eastern Conference, and they are undefeated heading into tonight’s game.
This should be a fun game to watch, but there are a few players to keep an eye on that stand out from the rest.
3 players to watch in New Jersey Devils vs New York Islanders matchup
1. Ilya Sorokin
Ilya Sorokin has stopped 40 of 42 shots on goal through the first two games the Islanders have played. He has posted a .952 save percentage with the Islanders facing off against the Coyotes and Sabres.
This is without a doubt the toughest opponent the Islanders have played so far, and it will be interesting to see how Sorokin does against a highly skilled offensive team in New Jersey. The Devils have scored at least three goals in each of their first three games, so it will be interesting to see who shines in this matchup.
2. Jack Hughes
Jack Hughes has six points in the Devils first three games on the year. He has scored two goals and put up four assists so far. Hughes exploded last season putting up 99 points in 78 games for the Devils. The former first overall pick looks to be having another good season currently on a three game point streak.
3. Timo Meier
The Devils have not played since Monday night in a game where Timo Meier took just one shift in the third period of a game the Devils were trailing. The discourse around Meier and his poor start through three games is a bit premature, but it will be interesting to see how he plays heading into the fourth game of the season.