Devils Begin Home Schedule Against Flyers
New Jersey opens its 2026-27 home slate against Philadelphia after winning its final preseason game. Evan Rodrigues, Luke Evangelista, and Amadeus Lombardi are set to make their Devils debuts, while Jesper Boqvist will be scratched. Philadelphia enters after a 7-0 home loss to Pittsburgh and is still seeking its first goal and win.
New Jersey’s home opener follows a 4-1 exhibition win over the Islanders. Philadelphia arrives after dropping its first game 7-0 to Pittsburgh at home, still without a goal or victory this season. Evan Rodrigues, Luke Evangelista and Amadeus Lombardi are all set for their Devils debuts, while Jesper Boqvist will watch from the press box and Stefan Noesen takes a fourth-line spot.
Rodrigues came from Florida in the Jacob Markstrom trade, which also brought Ben Steeves and Boqvist. Evangelista was acquired from Nashville on Sept. 1 for two 2028 draft choices. Lombardi, obtained from Detroit in June for a 2026 fourth-rounder, spent three seasons with AHL Grand Rapids and posted 42 points in 47 games last year.
A home opener with several debuts may draw attention from Devils fans and Philadelphia supporters, while a strong start could shape early-season mood and ticket interest. For players like Lombardi, an NHL debut could influence career confidence and visibility. Local businesses around the arena may see modest game-night activity. The Flyers’ early struggles could affect fan patience, though one game rarely defines a season.