The New Jersey Devils (9-3-1) host the Montreal Canadiens at Prudential Center to start a three-game homestand. The winner of tonight's game will become the first team in the league to reach 10 wins this season.
The Devils took to the ice for their morning skate in Newark, NJ, ahead of the Thursday night matchup against Montreal. Center Cody Glass returned to practice with the team after missing seven games due to an upper-body injury.
"It was a weird injury to have, it popped out of nowhere. I'm happy to be back with the guys," Glass said. "I'm 100 percent and shouldn't be limited at all. I'm just trying to jump right into it, get hit, see how it goes. It's hockey."
Meanwhile, forward Connor Brown, who missed the last two games, practiced yesterday but was not on the ice during this morning's session.
With Glass’ return, the Devils will reassemble the lines that powered their eight-game winning streak. Glass will resume his role as the third-line center, allowing Mercer to shift to the wing and reunite with Nico Hischier and Timo Meier. Rookie Arseny Gritsyuk will move down to the third line, easing some defensive responsibilities.
Author’s summary: Cody Glass returns from injury, allowing the Devils to restore their successful lineup as they face the Canadiens aiming to secure their 10th win.