Yahoo Sports Breaking Down Utah HC's Matchup With New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils are starting over after failing to be consistent under head coach Lindy Ruff.
The Utah Hockey Club is looking for consistency in the fourth and seemingly penultimate year of its rebuild.
Sounds like a matchup made in heaven.
Related: Bill Armstrong: “Looking For Consistency Is Key”
The Devils have a goalie question to answer, but with the acquisition of Jacob Markstrom this off-season, they appear to have their no. 1 tender solidified, while the addition of Brett Pesce gives veteran experience and physicality to their blue line.
All the while, they'll still have the services of Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, who are once expected to carry the load for the team offensively.
They'll be going up against an improved and deep offence for Utah that includes Clayton Keller, a healthy Barrett Hayton, and second-six ace Alex Kerfoot.
It'll also include new defenceman John Marino, who was acquired via trade on day two of the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft in June.
The 27-year old blue-liner also adds his own style of grittiness; he was fifth in blocked shots for the Devils with 89 last season. He will no doubt know the ins and outs of how New Jersey wants to play the game.
Related: John Marino Is Ready To Become A Leader For Young Utah Squad
And in a game that will feature a lot of young stars under 30 years old, maybe that could make the biggest difference.
But we won't know until we see Utah in training camp, which only makes it all the more intriguing.
