Devils Edge Islanders in Close Contest at Prudential Center

What we said beforehand

The New Jersey Devils will host the New York Islanders at Prudential Center on September 20, 2026, in a much-anticipated season opener for both teams. With both sides entering the matchup with a record of 0-0-0, the game marks the beginning of a new chapter for each franchise as they aim to set the tone for the upcoming NHL season.

Both teams are coming off challenging finishes to their previous season, with the Devils losing four of their last five games. Their most recent match was a loss to the Boston Bruins, where they fell 4-0 on April 14, 2026. In that stretch, the Devils managed to score an average of 2.4 goals per game while allowing an average of 4.0 goals against. Their home record in the last ten games stands at 3-3, with an overall scoring average of 3.1 goals per game and allowing 3.4. The Islanders, on the other hand, have been struggling even more, losing their last three games and finishing with a record of 3-7 in their last ten. They suffered a 2-1 defeat against the Carolina Hurricanes in their last outing on April 14, 2026, and have averaged just 2.0 goals scored while allowing 3.2 in their last five games.

When it comes to home versus away performance, the Devils have been slightly more successful at home, with a record of 3-3 in their last ten games at Prudential Center. The Islanders have struggled on the road, failing to secure a win in their last two away games.

Historically, the Devils have struggled against the Islanders in their recent meetings, losing all four encounters in the current season. Their last match took place on February 6, 2026, where the Devils lost 3-1 at home. Previous meetings have seen the Devils fall by scores of 0-9, 1-2, and 2-3, highlighting a trend that the Devils will be eager to reverse.

In terms of injuries, the Devils will be without Johnathan Kovacevic due to a knee injury and Nick Bjugstad, who is out with a pectoral injury. The Islanders will also be missing key players, including Quinn Finley, who is out with a shoulder injury, and Mathew Barzal, sidelined with a knee injury. The absence of these players could significantly impact both teams' performance on the ice.

The betting market has opened with the New Jersey Devils as slight favorites, with odds provided by an unnamed source. The conditions at Prudential Center on game day are expected to be conducive to hockey, setting the stage for an exciting matchup.

Viewers should watch for the offensive strategies employed by both teams, particularly how the Devils adapt their game plan to compensate for the absence of key players. Additionally, the performance of the goaltenders will be crucial, as both teams look to establish a strong defensive presence early in the season.