A Triumph in Czechia: New Jersey Devils Outshine Buffalo Sabres in NHL Season Opener

New Players Shine in New Jersey’s Ranks

On a Friday night in Prague, the capital of Czechia (also known as the Czech Republic), the New Jersey Devils celebrated a 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in the NHL regular-season opener. New Jersey’s Jacob Markstrom demonstrated his goaltending prowess with 30 saves, while Paul Cotter scored an empty-net goal and assisted another. Both players marked their impressive debut with the team in this international match-up.

Season Opener Highlights

The game kicked off with an honorary puck drop by Jaromir Jagr, a former NHL legend who now plays in the Czech league. Stefan Noesen seized the first scoring opportunity 8:39 into the game, propelling the Devils into the lead. Newcomer Johnathan Kovacevic followed suit, securing a 2-0 lead. Nico Hischier further extended the lead in the second period, scoring before Buffalo’s Owen Power got the Sabres on the scoreboard in the third period. Cotter’s goal cemented the Devil’s victory at 4-1.

Devils Coach Praises Team’s Performance

Sheldon Keefe, the Devils’ coach, commended his team for their competitive spirit. “From the get-go, the team played with high intensity,” he noted. “We dominated the net right off the bat.”

The NHL’s Global Outreach

The NHL Global Series saw the Devils and Sabres face off in two games in Prague. The Series will also host two more international games in Tampere, Finland, featuring the Stanley Cup defending champion Florida taking on the Dallas Stars. This marks the NHL’s 11th season of hosting games in Europe, aiming to expand its fan base in hockey-loving countries like Czechia, Sweden, and Finland.

Buffalo Sabres: On a Quest to End Playoff Drought

Buffalo Sabres, with their new goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who saved 19 goals, are on a mission to end a 13-season playoff drought. The team welcomed back Coach Lindy Ruff, who had previously led them to their last playoff in 2011 before being let go by New Jersey. Ruff acknowledged that the Devils’ early lead was a significant factor in the game’s outcome.

New Additions Prove Valuable for Devils

The Devils’ victory showcased the meaningful contributions of its new players. Keefe, hired in May, Noesen, a former Devil player signed back to the team, Kovacevic, acquired in a trade with Montreal Canadiens, Cotter from Vegas Golden Knights, and Markstrom from Calgary Flames all played a key role in the team’s winning performance.

A Moment of Silence for Johnny Gaudreau

Before the match began, players and fans observed a 13-second silence in memory of Johnny Gaudreau, a Columbus Blue Jackets forward who, alongside his brother Matthew, tragically lost their lives in a bicycling accident in New Jersey.

Looking Ahead

The Devils, after allowing 283 goals in the previous season (ranked 27th among 32 teams), believe Markstrom could be the key to improving their defense and possibly securing a playoff spot. “He’s here to win,” affirmed Keefe, “but he’s also a great character and a wonderful person.”

The teams will meet again in Prague for the completion of their series on Saturday.