MATVEI MICHKOV

Devils’ Fresh Start Meets Flyers’ Response

Jack Hughes leads New Jersey’s reset at home, while buzz around Matvei Michkov colors Philadelphia’s answer after a rocky opening week.

Opening night in Newark pairs New Jersey’s clean-slate push with Philadelphia’s urge to answer early questions. - Devils watch: Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier drive the reset, with Dougie Hamilton and Luke Hughes steering structure. Amadeus Lombardi’s arrival adds unpredictability amid Connor Brown’s absence. - Flyers watch: Continuity is the card; they finished last season at 43-27-12 (98 points) and reached the second round. Expect a tighter look after camp tinkering, with Matvei Michkov’s role and crease confidence under the microscope.