Devils Must Show They Can Bounce Back Against the Mammoth

The Hockey Writers argues that the New Jersey Devils must prove their resilience in Tuesday's matchup against the Utah Mammoth following a 6-0 shutout loss to the New York Islanders. After opening the 2026-27 season with an overtime win against the Philadelphia Flyers, writer Devora Slonim asserts that New Jersey faces an early test to demonstrate that blowout losses will not derail their campaign as they did in previous years.

Slonim emphasizes that the Devils need significant improvement from their special teams, noting the power play has started the season 0-for-9. The analysis also highlights the need for increased five-on-five offensive output from forwards, urging new additions like Anthony Mantha, Evan Rodrigues, and Luke Evangelista to build chemistry and convert opportunities.