Devils Ride Five-Game Run as Mantha Exits
New Jersey's surge continues despite an undisclosed injury to winger Anthony Mantha during a Friday win against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Hockey
The New Jersey Devils went 9-5-0 in October and have won five of their last six games, scoring three or more goals in every win during that stretch. Forward Anthony Mantha left Friday's game against the Vegas Golden Knights early with an undisclosed injury.
Why it matters
The Devils are building momentum behind a strong group of forwards and newly acquired goaltending, and Mantha's absence could test their depth. For Newark-area fans, the team's early-season form makes the injury update a key watch item.
Jack Hughes leads the Devils with 16 points and ranks first in the NHL in shot attempts per game at 8.4. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom's replacement Hellebuyck has posted a .944 save percentage, though the sample size of two starts is small.
The players
Anthony Mantha
A veteran forward whose career has included stints with several NHL clubs, now playing for the New Jersey Devils.
Sheldon Keefe
The Devils head coach who has provided updates on Mantha's status and expected return timeline.
Hellebuyck
Connor Hellebuyck, a veteran goaltender and recent trade acquisition making his first starts with the Devils.
The details
Mantha was caught up with Noah Hanifin and crashed into the net halfway through the third period, then left the game after returning to the ice. Hellebuyck, acquired in a trade last week, made 19 saves on 21 shots against Vegas.
Timeline
Friday night (late October 2026): Mantha suffers undisclosed injury against Vegas Golden Knights.
Tuesday (early November 2026): Hellebuyck makes first start against Dallas Stars and Devils face Edmonton Oilers.
Nov. 1 to Nov. 8, 2026: Devils play four games this week.
Season Trajectory
The Devils' five-game run and strong goal output position them as an early contender in the Metropolitan Division. Their goaltending upgrade and Hughes' production shape a competitive picture that Mantha's injury could affect.
Fantasy managers should track Mantha's status before Tuesday's game against Edmonton. Jack Hughes' 16 points and high shot volume make him a notable option for those building rosters around the Devils' scoring.
The takeaway
The Devils' early success shows how a goaltending upgrade and a deep forward group can steady a team through an injury. Readers tracking the team should watch Tuesday's lineup for Mantha's return.
What happens next
The Devils play the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday, when Mantha is hoped to return to the lineup, and play four games between Nov. 1 and Nov. 8, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the team's season, explore Hockey coverage tied to Newark.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Hockey Writers.
