The New Jersey Devils face significant challenges as defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon have been ruled out for Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes due to injuries suffered in Game 1. Coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed both players did not participate in the morning skate, and their absence adds to the team's struggles, already missing top center Jack Hughes and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler.

In their place, Simon Nemec and Dennis Cholowski will make their playoff debuts. The Devils need to enhance their performance after a disappointing 4-1 loss in the series opener, where they were outshot and struggled to find their rhythm. With Cody Glass cleared to play, the team will rely on its depth and resilience to bounce back against a formidable Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils face uncertainty regarding player availability for Game 2 of their Stanley Cup playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes. With star forward Jack Hughes and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler already sidelined, the team is now evaluating the statuses of Brenden Dillon, Luke Hughes, and Cody Glass, who exited Game 1 due to injuries. The Devils fell 4-1 in their series opener due to being outshot 45-24, prompting coach Sheldon Keefe to express the need for improved performance from the entire roster.

The Hurricanes capitalized on their chances, with Logan Stankoven scoring twice in a commanding second period. Meanwhile, Nico Hischier managed to score for New Jersey, providing a glimmer of hope late in the second period. Keefe emphasized a stronger team effort, stating that all players must contribute more to overcome a resilient Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils faced a worrying wave of injuries during their Game 1 playoff matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, culminating in a 4-1 loss. Defenseman Brenden Dillon was sidelined after being injured in a collision, while Cody Glass also exited the game, leaving the Devils further depleted. Earlier, Luke Hughes briefly left the ice but returned later. The situation is exacerbated by the absence of key players, including Jack Hughes and Jonas Siegenthaler, due to previous injuries. Coach Sheldon Keefe remains optimistic about Dillon's quick recovery, though the team will need to adapt as they prepare for Game 2 against Carolina.

As NHL teams gear up for their playoff pushes, daily fantasy hockey enthusiasts are eyeing key matchups that could influence their lineups for April 16, 2025. Goalie Sam Montembeault, facing the Detroit Red Wings, stands out as a solid option on DraftKings, priced at $7.5K. Meanwhile, rookie Macklin Celebrini is a name to watch as he battles the Edmonton Oilers, potentially boosting his Rookie of the Year candidacy.

On the wing, Brendan Gallagher is set to play a critical role for the Montreal Canadiens against the Carolina Hurricanes; a game that could determine their playoff fate. Defenseman Luke Hughes has stepped up in Dougie Hamilton's absence, showing consistent performance that might be crucial as the New Jersey Devils face the Wings. Each of these players presents unique opportunities for DFS players aiming to build competitive lineups.

April 11, 2025, presents an exciting slate for NHL DFS players, with key matchups that could shape optimal lineups. The Tampa Bay Lightning face off against the Detroit Red Wings, with Andre Vasilevskiy expected to be a pivotal choice in goal. Anthony Cirelli stands out as a center option, especially given his recent form against the Red Wings. Brendan Gallagher is highlighted as a must-play winger due to his current hot streak, making him a strong candidate for a goal.

On defense, Luke Hughes is rapidly gaining attention for his impressive performance, making him a valuable addition at a reasonable salary. The article also emphasizes top power plays and lineup stacks to capitalize on, providing essential insights for maximizing fantasy points. Players and teams should be monitored closely for last-minute news, particularly injury updates, which can dramatically affect DFS strategies.