Devils fans are happy to see some NHL action after a 15 day layoff and a team that is, slowly, getting healthier.

For tonight's tilt we still have Hischier, Zajac, Gusev and Kulikov still on the COVID protocol.

Miller and Panarin are out for the Rangers. Good news for the Devils on their second stint against the cross-river rivals.

The Devils fell in the standings, as a result of the layoff, and has played only 9 games. The lowest in the league.

Everyone is anxious about getting back on the ice but with one practice the first period will be interesting tonight.

***Update
Announced lines for tonight is:
Johnsson - Hughes - Bratt
Kuokkanen - Sharangovich - Palmieri
Maltsev - Zacha - Merkley
Wood - McLeod - Bastian

Murray - Subban
Smith - Severson
Butcher - Tennyson

Blackwood - Wedgewood

I can't help but think about the Devils when fully healthy. What could things look like? Who are the odd players out?

Here are a few questions I have in anticipation of a healthy Devils lineup (some thought provoking questions for you that have asked ):

What happens down the middle?
Nico and Hughes are 1 and 2. What happens to bottom six down the middle? Zajac, Sharangovich, McLeod and Zacha. Who stays and who shifts to wing?

Who are the top four wingers flanking Nico and Hughes?

Can McLeod and Bastian continue their strong play?

What does the D look like? And, Will Butcher play?

Can Dell push Blackwood to become a better goalie, just like e hoped Crawford would?

Can this Devils team continue building it's locker room culture?
One thing I noticed before the pause was how excel and happy this team was when winning. They look like a tighter group than last year, even in a COVID environment.

These are just a few topics I am looking forward to seeing develop as they get back into it.

In other news, Devils broadcaster Steve Cangialosi has been hit with COVID. Kenny Albert will fill in for the game tonight in case you hear a different voice.

What are your projected lineups?
Where do you see the lines looking like when we get healthy?



Lets go Devils!!!!!

Truly yours,
The Devils Advocate