Stefan Noesen scored the first goal of the 2024-25 NHL season to help the New Jersey Devils secure a 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in the league’s opening game held in Prague. Jacob Markstrom had a strong performance, making 30 saves in his debut with New Jersey, while Paul Cotter contributed an empty-net goal and an assist.
The game began after iconic former player Jaromir Jagr dropped the ceremonial puck. Noesen opened the scoring for the Devils at 8:39 into the first period, followed by defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic scoring to make it 2-0. Nico Hischier added another goal early in the second period before Owen Power put the Sabres on the scoreboard midway through the third. Cotter capped off the scoring with an empty-netter, solidifying the win for the Devils.
Devils coach Sheldon Keefe praised his team’s energy and determination, stating that they were aggressive from the very start of the game. “From the opening faceoff we were all over the net within 10 seconds,” Keefe added.
This matchup is part of the NHL Global Series, which aims to expand the league’s fan base in Europe. Following this game, two additional international games are scheduled in Tampere, Finland, on November 1-2, featuring the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, against the Dallas Stars.
Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 19 saves for the Sabres, who are looking to end a playoff drought that has lasted 13 seasons. Coach Lindy Ruff, returning for a second stint with the team after being fired by New Jersey, acknowledged the importance of starting strong. “They were a step faster to loose pucks, they won more 50-50 battles early on and I thought that was the difference in the game,” he said.
The Devils, aiming to bounce back from a decade-long playoff absence, showcased strong performances from their new players. Keefe, hired in May after leaving Toronto, saw contributions from Noesen, who returned to the organization after a previous stint from 2016 to 2019, as well as Kovacevic and Cotter, who were acquired through trades. Markstrom was also brought in through a trade aiming to bolster the team’s defensive efforts.
Before the game began, a moment of silence was held to remember Johnny Gaudreau, a Columbus Blue Jackets player who tragically lost his life along with his brother in a biking accident in New Jersey.
Last season, the Devils allowed 283 goals, ranking 27th in the league. The team is hopeful that Markstrom’s addition will improve their defensive statistics and aid in their quest for a playoff run. “He’s come here for a reason, he wants to win,” Keefe remarked about Markstrom.
The teams are set to face off again in Prague on Saturday.