Devils Fall Just Short, MacLean Honored, and a Key Addition Sparks the Lineup
The New Jersey Devils came up short in a 4-3 loss to the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night, despite a strong push late in the game. The Jets did their damage in the second period, netting three goals that proved to be the difference.
The Devils battled back, showing some real fight in the third, but couldn’t find the equalizer before the final horn. It was a frustrating loss, but not without its bright spots - and one of those came from a new face in the lineup.
Leeni Hameenaho Making an Early Impact
One of the more encouraging developments for New Jersey has been the addition of Leeni Hameenaho. Since joining the lineup, Hameenaho has injected a much-needed spark.
His presence has added a layer of energy and creativity that’s been missing at times this season. Whether it’s on the forecheck, in transition, or finding soft spots in the offensive zone, Hameenaho has quickly shown he belongs.
The Devils needed a jolt, and so far, he’s delivering one.
A Legend Gets His Due
Before the puck even dropped on Tuesday, the Devils took time to honor one of their own. John MacLean was officially inducted into the New Jersey Devils Ring of Honor - a long-overdue recognition for a player who helped define the franchise’s early success.
MacLean’s name is etched into Devils history, not just for his production on the ice, but for moments that shaped the team’s identity. His induction is a reminder of the standard he helped set - one the current roster continues to chase.
Around the League: Key Moves and a Major Policy Shift
Soucy to the Isles, Demko Out for the Season
In other NHL news, defenseman Carson Soucy is heading to the New York Islanders, giving their blue line a physical, stay-at-home presence. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks were dealt a tough blow with the announcement that goaltender Thatcher Demko will miss the remainder of the season. It’s a massive loss for a team that’s leaned heavily on Demko’s elite play between the pipes.
Malinski Extended, Rust Suspended
Colorado locked up blueliner Sam Malinski with a four-year extension - a sign of confidence in his development and potential to be a long-term contributor on the back end. Over in Pittsburgh, Bryan Rust has been handed a three-game suspension. The league’s Department of Player Safety made the call, and it wasn’t just for a physical foul - which brings us to a bigger shift in NHL discipline.
NHL Expands Scope of Supplemental Discipline
The NHL announced a significant change in how it handles supplemental discipline. The Department of Player Safety will now oversee violations of all league rules - not just those involving physical infractions.
This is a major evolution in the league’s approach to discipline, one that could have wide-ranging implications moving forward. Since its inception in 2011-12, the department focused solely on in-game physical fouls.
Broadening that scope signals a more comprehensive approach to player conduct and accountability.
Player Assistance Program: Breaking the Stigma
In a more human side of the sport, the NHL and NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program is getting renewed attention - and deservedly so. The program, designed to support players dealing with mental health, substance use, and other personal challenges, is being recognized not as a last resort, but as a transformative resource.
“It’s not a career-ending experience… it’s a life-changing experience,” one source noted. The league and players’ association are pushing to destigmatize the program, encouraging players to seek help without fear of judgment.
It’s a vital step toward a healthier, more supportive culture in pro hockey.
Looking Ahead
For the Devils, the focus shifts to turning flashes of promise into consistent results. The loss to Winnipeg stings, but the emergence of players like Hameenaho and the honoring of legends like MacLean serve as reminders of both the future and the foundation this team is built on. With a busy stretch ahead and the playoff picture tightening, every shift, every point, and every piece of momentum matters.