Nico Hischier will make his season debut for the Devils against the Red Wings (7 p.m. ET; MSG, BSDET, ESPN+, SN NOW).
The center missed a 5-2 loss at the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday because of a hamstring strain he sustained in a 2-1 preseason win at the Canadiens on Sept. 26.
"I'm feeling good, definitely more confident and I'll be in tonight," Hischier said. "I feel where I want to be. I'm just looking forward to play a game, get out there with the guys, battle in front of our home crowd. It's going to be a fun game, a great atmosphere, so I'm definitely pumped for this game."
Hischier set NHL career highs in goals (21), assists (39) and points (60) in 70 games last season.
"I think that once Nico goes in, everything changes," coach Lindy Ruff said. "We're getting a great competitor, a real good leader, and we know what he can do. A little bit disappointed that he had to miss some time, but obviously to get him back is great."-- Mike G. Morreale