5 New Jersey Devils games we’re looking forward to the most in 2018-19

3. Washington Capitals vs New Jersey Devils. Oct. 11, 2018

The NHL schedule wasted no time challenging the New Jersey Devils in 2018-19. The team is set to return back home during the second week in October, after participating in the NHL’s Global Series in Gothenburg, Sweden, against the Edmonton Oilers.

The Devils 2018 home opener is against none other than the defending Stanley Cup champion, Washington Capitals.

While the game isn’t on a weekend (Thursday), the Prudential Center is always exciting during the team’s home opener and offers a memorable atmosphere for the fans. New Jersey posted a 23-14-4 record on home ice last season, but was 1-3 overall against the Capitals. This matchup also offers an opportunity to catch a potentially tired Caps group off guard and collect an important two points in the standings early in the season.

The Devils will get a taste right from the get-go from two of the league’s top superstars, as they’ll see the likes of Connor McDavid and Alex Ovechkin in less than one week. Ovechkin netted three goals and added four assists in four games vs. the Devils last season, so the defense-corps in addition to Keith Kinkaid will have their hands full.

Speaking of Kinkaid, it’s a prime opportunity to remind the NHL and its brightest stars that he’s a legitimate starting goaltender on the rise and a force to be reckoned with.

If the Devils replicate the team’s play from last season’s home opener (4-1 win vs. Colorado Avalanche), then the night should make for a good start to a fresh new season at the Rock.