Assessing the New Jersey Devils in a Transformed Metropolitan Division

The Metropolitan Division has undergone significant transformations this offseason, a reality that has been widely discussed across various platforms. Change is a staple in the NHL, making it unsurprising that divisions shift dramatically from one season to the next. However, even with these anticipated alterations, a detailed examination of each team’s status is warranted.

As we approach the 2026-27 season, all teams in the Metropolitan Division have revamped their rosters. Some have made substantial improvements, while others have taken a step back—at least on paper. This article will explore the Devils’ divisional rivals to assess their current standing, followed by an evaluation of where New Jersey fits into the division’s hierarchy.

Carolina Hurricanes

2025-26 Season Results: 53-22-7, 113 points; Won Stanley Cup

Notable Additions: none

Notable Subtractions: Frederik Andersen

Current Cap Space: $9.9M

The reigning champions, the Carolina Hurricanes, finally clinched the Stanley Cup under coach Rod Brind’Amour. While some argue they had a favorable path in the playoffs, their overall performance solidified their status as one of the league’s elite teams. The Devils have struggled against Carolina in recent seasons, and now they must contend with the Hurricanes celebrating their championship.

This offseason has been relatively quiet in Raleigh. The Hurricanes did not make any significant additions, with their most notable transactions being the signing of Juuso Valimaki and the re-signing of Nic Deslauriers. They also did not draft any immediate-impact players, and the only key loss was veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen, who signed with Edmonton. The team now relies on Brandon Bussi and Pyotr Kochetkov to handle the goaltending duties.

Another situation to keep an eye on is the status of Alexander Nikishin, a Restricted Free Agent rumored to be on the trading block. Additionally, Seth Jarvis is expected to miss 4-6 months following shoulder surgery, which could significantly affect Carolina’s depth.

Pittsburgh Penguins

2025-26 Season Results: 41-25-16, 98 points; Lost first round to PHI

Notable Additions: Hendrix Lapierre, Kaedan Korczak, Trevor van Riemsdyk, Andrei Kuzmenko, Nicholas Robertson

Notable Subtractions: Anthony Mantha, Ryan Shea, Parker Wotherspoon, Noel Acciari, Stuart Skinner

Current Cap Space: $16.9M

In a surprising turn, the Penguins finished second in the Metropolitan Division last season, defying expectations of a bottom-five finish. Their success was largely due to a potent offense and a knack for securing loser points, though they faltered in the playoffs.

One of their key offseason moves was extending franchise icon Evgeni Malkin for another year. Pittsburgh also made trades for promising young players, including Hendrix Lapierre and Nicholas Robertson, and added Andrei Kuzmenko and Trevor van Riemsdyk in free agency. While they lost several players, including Anthony Mantha, who had an impressive season, they still possess ample cap space for further adjustments.

Philadelphia Flyers

2025-26 Season Results: 43-27-12, 98 points; Lost second round to CAR

Notable Additions: Joseph Woll, Simon Benoit, Noel Acciari, Zach Aston-Reese, Jack Studnicka

Notable Subtractions: Garnet Hathaway

Current Cap Space: $29.6M

The Flyers emerged as a surprise playoff contender last season, even winning a round before being swept by the Hurricanes. Their offseason was marked by a bold but unsuccessful offer sheet for Anaheim’s Leo Carlsson, which was matched. Philadelphia’s focus has been on enhancing their roster with solid depth, highlighted by the acquisition of Joseph Woll and Simon Benoit, along with several signings to improve their forward group.

The Flyers also secured a long-term deal for goaltender Dan Vladar, who played a crucial role in their playoff push. While Garnet Hathaway was a notable loss, the majority of the roster remains intact as they aim to build on last season’s success.

Washington Capitals

2025-26 Season Results: 43-30-9, 95 points; Missed postseason

Notable Additions: Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou, Vincent Desharnais, Boone Jenner, Justin Holl

Notable Subtractions: Connor McMichael, Brandon Duhaime, John Carlson

Current Cap Space: $75.4K

The Capitals faced a challenging season, finishing with 95 points but failing to qualify for the playoffs. In an effort to remain competitive, they made significant moves this offseason, including acquiring Jordan Kyrou in a trade and signing Alex Tuch to a lucrative deal.

Washington also bolstered their roster by adding Boone Jenner and other depth pieces. However, the departure of Connor McMichael, along with other losses, raises questions about their future competitiveness. Additionally, Rasmus Sandin’s recovery from ACL surgery could impact their defensive outlook early in the season.

Columbus Blue Jackets

2025-26 Season Results: 40-30-12, 92 points; Missed postseason

Notable Additions: Valeri Nichushkin, Ryan Lomberg, Phoenix Copley

Notable Subtractions: Boone Jenner, Mason Marchment, Danton Heinen

Current Cap Space: $23.3M

The Blue Jackets have experienced two consecutive seasons on the brink of playoff contention, yet have fallen short. Their offseason was tumultuous, with significant changes aimed at returning to competitiveness.

Columbus’s most notable offseason move was acquiring Valeri Nichushkin, which they hope will provide the offensive spark they need. However, missing the playoffs again has raised concerns about their core and its ability to perform. The departure of Boone Jenner and others adds to the uncertainty as they prepare for the new season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.