Get ready for an exciting update, Devils fans! The return of Brett Pesce has the team buzzing with energy and anticipation.
After being sidelined since October 26 due to an injury, Pesce is back with his teammates, and it looks like he might just be ready to reclaim his spot in the lineup. During practice on Tuesday, he skated alongside Luke Hughes, a pairing that head coach Sheldon Keefe described as "quite comfortable."
"Pesce brings a boost of energy to the group," Keefe shared. "His presence will make the team vibe more upbeat, especially as we head into the holiday season. It's not just about his on-ice skills; his presence lifts the morale of the entire team."
But here's where it gets controversial... Keefe acknowledged that Pesce's game fitness might need some time to get back up to speed, despite his solo skating sessions and practices with injured players. "It's a process," Keefe explained. "Having a familiar pairing with Hughes should help both players settle back into their roles."
As for Pesce's potential return to game action during the upcoming road trip to Vegas, Keefe had this to say: "He's coming with us, and with nothing else to do in Vegas, we might as well give him a shot in a game."
In other news, forwards Cody Glass and Stefan Noesen joined the practice later, while injured forward Marc McLaughlin donned a blue no-contact jersey for a portion of the session. Forward Arseny Gritsyuk, who missed the previous weekend's games, was absent and won't be traveling with the team.
And this is the part most people miss... the defense pairings! With the addition of Pesce, the D pairs are looking stronger than ever. It's a welcome boost for the Devils as they navigate the challenges of the season.
Injury updates provided some encouraging news. Jack Hughes is on schedule for a re-evaluation after Christmas, while Gritsyuk and Nemec are expected to have clearer recovery timelines soon. Dadonov, however, is still a ways off, skating without a puck.
In a heartwarming turn of events, forward Nathan Legare was recalled from Utica of the American Hockey League. Legare, who was at home when he received the call, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. "I know my role, and I'm ready to contribute to the team's success," he said. "Being a power forward who can play reliable defense and bring physicality is my goal."
Keefe also shared his thoughts on moving Dawson Mercer back to wing, noting the positive impact it had on Mercer's energy and offensive presence. "It's a big difference when you don't have to grind it out in your own end all the time," Keefe observed.
So, Devils fans, what do you think? Are you excited about Pesce's return and the potential impact it could have on the team's performance? Share your thoughts in the comments! We'd love to hear your predictions and insights as the season unfolds.
