What's Happening?
The New Jersey Devils and New York Islanders are set to face off in Elmont, New York, as both teams aim to enter the holiday break on a positive note. The Devils recently saw the return of key players, including Jack Hughes, who had been sidelined for 18 games due to a finger injury. Hughes made an immediate impact by scoring in the first period of their recent game against the Buffalo Sabres, although the Devils ultimately lost 3-1. The Islanders, on the other hand, are dealing with several injuries. Goalie Ilya Sorokin will miss the upcoming game due to a minor issue, while key players like Kyle Palmieri and Alexander Romanov are out for the season. Bo Horvat, the team's leading scorer, is also recovering from an ankle injury but has resumed
skating.
Why It's Important?
The return of Jack Hughes is significant for the Devils, who struggled in his absence, going 8-10-0 without him. His presence could bolster the team's performance as they vie for a playoff spot in the competitive Metropolitan Division. For the Islanders, the absence of key players like Sorokin, Palmieri, and Romanov poses a challenge, potentially impacting their playoff aspirations. The team's ability to adapt and perform without these players will be crucial in maintaining their position in the standings. The outcome of this game could influence the playoff race, as both teams are closely ranked in the division.
What's Next?
Following the holiday break, both teams will look to solidify their rosters and address any lingering injuries. The Devils will aim to capitalize on the return of their star players to improve their standings. Meanwhile, the Islanders will focus on managing their current injuries and integrating returning players like Bo Horvat back into the lineup. The performance of both teams in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining their playoff prospects.
