nj
The New Jersey Devils wrapped up a demanding road trip with two wins in three games against Dallas, Colorado, and Vegas, finishing October with a 5-0-0 record. The team responded to a poor outing in Colorado with a strong performance against the Golden Knights, drawing praise from head coach Keefe. "I couldn't ask for more in terms of the response," Keefe said. The wins were built on patience, improved checking, and contributions from up and down the lineup.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has provided a steadying influence since joining the team. After waiting months to play, he described his mindset during the anthem before his debut with one word: "Finally." Hellebuyck stopped 16 of 17 shots in Dallas and 19 of 21 in Vegas, and while he hasn't yet stolen a game, his ability to calm things down has already made a difference. Luke Hughes called him "a rock."
Key Analysis
Luke Hughes' defensive development may be the most significant storyline. While his goals in Dallas and Vegas provided highlight-reel moments, Keefe was equally pleased with his checking. "When he did, the play died, and we were going the other way," Keefe said after the Vegas win. That aspect of Hughes' game could elevate him to a new level, as his skating allows him to erase opponents' chances and immediately create opportunities for the Devils.
Arseny Gritsyuk has been thriving alongside Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt, scoring twice in Vegas to reach eight goals for the season. His first goal halted the Golden Knights' momentum late in the first period, and his second showcased his confidence to attack the middle and finish his own rebound. "Jack Hughes showed me how I can do this stuff before," Gritsyuk said. "I tried all this stuff, and it's working."
Jack Hughes' best work wasn't limited to his two goals and seven shots in Vegas; his defensive details were equally impressive. His stick helped create offense, and his recovery in the third period snuffed out a dangerous play after a turnover behind the Devils' net. "When we've got guys like Jack leading the way in that area, there's no choice for anybody else," Keefe said.
Connor Brown's value extends beyond the scoresheet. He scored both Devils goals in Colorado, but Keefe has repeatedly highlighted his voice, experience, and return to the lineup as key factors in the team's recent improvement. Cody Glass described Brown as a teammate who works the same way whether he's on the first line or the fourth, and Glass himself is speaking up more, with Keefe noting that even Amadeus Lombardi is making his voice heard on the bench.
The power play remains a concern. The Devils went 0-for-8 on the road trip and are converting at just 16.7% on the season, ranking 24th in the NHL. While they are generating opportunities and Keefe points to encouraging underlying numbers, goals are still needed. A brief five-on-three in Colorado went unused, and Keefe cited tired players and the need for shooters when asked about Dougie Hamilton and Anthony Mantha getting that opportunity. More willingness to change personnel if the finishing doesn't improve might be necessary, as the talent is there.
On defense, Keefe has made it clear that the rotation includes more than Brenden Dillon. Declan Chisholm returned and Johnathan Kovacevic sat before the Colorado game, with schedule and readiness driving decisions among three players. Dillon reminded everyone in Dallas of what he brings: physicality, a key defensive intervention around an open net, and a willingness to answer players like Jamie Benn.
Anthony Mantha's status is worth watching after he helped create Luke Hughes' opening goal in Vegas but left the game and did not return. Keefe had no update afterward, saying the team needed to evaluate him back home. He cautioned against assuming the exit meant something serious but wouldn't rule out missed time. Mantha, who has three goals and six points, had been getting more comfortable alongside Evan Rodrigues and Jesper Boqvist. If he misses games, the forward depth will face another test.
The Dylan Larkin situation remains worth monitoring. Detroit suspended Larkin without pay on Thursday after he refused to play while awaiting a trade. New Jersey is among the teams on his reported list of approved destinations, making this relevant, but being on a list isn't the same as being close to a deal. General manager Tom Fitzgerald has shown he'll act when he sees an opportunity, but the question is whether the price, cap space, and roster fit make sense.
Originally reported by nj.