Preseason Game Preview #1: New Jersey Devils vs. New York Islanders

Yesterday, I did a bit of an overview of the trends going on at Devils training camp . In addition to those lines, the third day of camp featured the first look at special teams units.

Of course, these players will not all play today. Since it is preseason, the Devils only need to play a limited number of veterans, while the rest of players involved will be from Utica. Most of those players will not necessarily be fighting for an immediate NHL job, but for the right to be called up from Utica at some point during the season in case of injuries. Given the looks in camp so far, the true "battles" seem to be:

Amadeus Lombardi vs. Stefan Noesen vs. Jesper Boqvist for the 12th and 13th forward spots