The Washington Capitals recently expressed relief in wrapping up their matchups against the New Jersey Devils, with coach Spencer Carbery noting the Devils are a strong team. Despite a challenging 2023-24 season for New Jersey, which ended in disappointment, they are now positioned for a potential playoff run. General Manager Tom Fitzgerald has made significant changes, including coaching adjustments and player acquisitions, in a bid to reshape the team into a competitive contender.

New Jersey’s roster, led by stars like Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, aims to build on its promising start this season. Fitzgerald's strategy mirrors past successful teams, emphasizing a strong core and essential depth to tackle postseason challenges. The team's recent struggles highlight the necessity for both offensive consistency and solid defensive play, raising questions about their readiness for playoff intensity.