Devils vs. Hurricanes Preview: Palát Returns

The New Jersey Devils are getting some much-needed reinforcements for their first matchup vs. the Carolina Hurricanes this season.

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The New Jersey Devils got a massive two points against the Vegas Golden Knights in a thrilling 6-5 overtime win a couple of nights ago. But it won't get any easier tonight, as they'll take on the Carolina Hurricanes for the first time this season. Here are three things to watch. 

Goaltending Optional?

With Spencer Martin having gotten the start for the Hurricanes last night, that means they'll likely turn to Antti Raanta against the Devils. The veteran netminder has struggled for the Hurricanes this season, with an .866 save percentage through 21 games. 

The Hurricanes even placed Raanta on waivers earlier in the season to get his game in order. While he's been a bit better since getting recalled from the AHL, his numbers are still not great. He has an .892 SV% in seven games since returning to the NHL and has been under an .850 SV% in his last three appearances. 

Raanta's underlying numbers are pretty rough across the board. He's given up 12.4 goals above expected and has a five-on-five SV% of .891. The Devils should have an advantage in net...assuming they give Nico Daws the start. 

That looks like it'll be the case, as Daws was in the starter's net at today's morning skate. He's been the better of the two goalies and has posted average to slightly above-league-average numbers this season. 

Furthermore, the Hurricanes are not a team you want to play Vitek Vaněček against. One) He struggled against them in the playoffs last season, and two) they're one of the best five-on-five teams in the NHL. It'd be a recipe for disaster to start him against a team that ranks in the top 10 of the NHL in generating high-danger chances. So, giving Daws the start is the right call. 

Palát's Return a Welcome Sight