Devils’ Toughest Opponents in 2025-26
T
The Hockey Writers
Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by The Hockey Writers. Read the full original article here →
The New Jersey Devils are gearing up for the 2025-26 NHL season and looking ahead at their toughest opponents. Among these, the New York Rangers stand out due to their fierce rivalry and combined history of playoff battles. The Rangers, with their strong core including Artemi Panarin and Adam Fox, challenge the Devils not just on the ice but also in the hearts of their fan bases. The intensity of the games between these two teams brings the best out of their players, ensuring that every matchup is a must-watch.
Another formidable opponent for the Devils will be the Tampa Bay Lightning. With a star-studded lineup featuring Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos, the Lightning are known for their offensive prowess and strategic gameplay. The Devils must find ways to neutralize their high-scoring offense while capitalizing on their own opportunities. This matchup promises a thrilling blend of speed and skill that hockey fans crave.
The Pittsburgh Penguins also loom as a significant challenge. With veteran presence from players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins bring experience and a proven winning mentality. As the Devils seek to establish dominance in their division, overcoming teams like the Penguins will be essential to their success and ambitions for the playoffs. The rivalry and closely contested games against the Penguins always deliver excitement and drama.
Finally, the Carolina Hurricanes, known for their relentless forechecking and team cohesion, pose an ongoing threat. With emerging stars like Sebastian Aho and their savvy veterans, the Hurricanes are a team that can easily disrupt the Devils' plans if they aren't prepared. Every game against these top-tier opponents will be critical in shaping both team's playoff aspirations throughout the season.
Another formidable opponent for the Devils will be the Tampa Bay Lightning. With a star-studded lineup featuring Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos, the Lightning are known for their offensive prowess and strategic gameplay. The Devils must find ways to neutralize their high-scoring offense while capitalizing on their own opportunities. This matchup promises a thrilling blend of speed and skill that hockey fans crave.
The Pittsburgh Penguins also loom as a significant challenge. With veteran presence from players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins bring experience and a proven winning mentality. As the Devils seek to establish dominance in their division, overcoming teams like the Penguins will be essential to their success and ambitions for the playoffs. The rivalry and closely contested games against the Penguins always deliver excitement and drama.
Finally, the Carolina Hurricanes, known for their relentless forechecking and team cohesion, pose an ongoing threat. With emerging stars like Sebastian Aho and their savvy veterans, the Hurricanes are a team that can easily disrupt the Devils' plans if they aren't prepared. Every game against these top-tier opponents will be critical in shaping both team's playoff aspirations throughout the season.