Hellebuyck joins Devils, Hall activated by Hurricanes — Metropolitan Division roundup

There were no games on the Metropolitan Division slate Monday, but the off-ice news more than filled the void, led by a major goaltending addition in New Jersey and a wave of positive updates in Carolina.

Devils hand the crease to Hellebuyck

In New Jersey, all eyes are on Connor Hellebuyck. On Sportsnet and The Hockey News panels, analysts debated whether the Devils’ blockbuster trade for the three-time Vezina Trophy winner is enough to push them into true Stanley Cup contender status. Sportsnet reports that Hellebuyck hit the ice for his first practice as a Devil and says he’s ready to play, with a possible debut coming on the upcoming road trip. Daily Faceoff notes he skipped training camp and will have limited prep time before jumping into game action. The Devils sit third in the Metropolitan at 7-4-0, with 14 points in 11 games, and are clearly banking on Hellebuyck to be the final piece in net.

First-place Hurricanes get even deeper

Carolina, already atop the division at 9-2-2 with 20 points, keeps stacking the deck. Sportsnet reports the Hurricanes have activated Taylor Hall from injured reserve, while Daily Faceoff adds he’s expected back after a five-game absence in which Carolina went 3-1-1. On the blue line, Daily Faceoff says Alexander Nikishin ended his holdout Sunday by signing a one-year, US$3-million deal, and Sportsnet dug into what led him to accept a short-term contract after initially aiming higher. The Hockey Writers also points out that Jesperi Kotkaniemi’s renewed form since moving back to centre has created some difficult roster decisions for a team that already looked deep up front.

Rangers stumble, Flyers lose Ristolainen, Caps and Isles chase consistency

The Rangers remain second in the Metro with 15 points in 14 games (7-6-1), but they’re coming off a tough loss. As reported by La Presse and Sportsnet, the Los Angeles Kings beat New York 6-3 on Monday night, with James Reimer pulled after the first period in his Rangers debut. Sportsnet notes that Artemi Panarin and Joel Edmundson each posted two points in the defeat.

In Philadelphia, the blue line takes a hit. Daily Faceoff and Sportsnet report that defenceman Rasmus Ristolainen will miss two weeks with a hand injury, a re-aggravation of an earlier issue. According to The Hockey News, the Flyers’ power play is showing signs of life and some young forwards are heating up, even as Cutter Gauthier’s goal drought continues.

The Washington Capitals, fourth at 6-4-0, are still searching for another gear. The Hockey News and The Hockey Writers note that despite what was arguably one of the league’s best off-seasons, their middling start has raised questions about the roster mix, offensive identity and a crowded injury list as head coach Spencer Carbery works to settle on his preferred lineup.

The New York Islanders, fifth at 5-4-2, have seen their early progress tested. The Hockey Writers reports that injuries to several key forwards are straining their depth, even as they keep most games close. The Penguins (11 points, 5-6-1) and Blue Jackets (8 points, 4-5-0) stayed out of the headlines Monday, holding their spots in the middle and bottom of the division pack for now.