Three experiments the New Jersey Devils should test during preseason

With seven games scheduled, the coaching staff has plenty of time for trial and error.

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New Jersey Devils hockey returns in exactly one week. That’s right; the Devils open their seven-game preseason schedule next Monday against the Montreal Canadiens.

The great thing about training camp, and preseason play, is that you have a lot of room for trial and error.

You can try different things – and gather more information about what works and what doesn’t – without any sort of repercussions.

With that in mind, here are a few things I’d like to see Lindy Ruff and co. test out over the next few weeks:

Alexander Holtz with 86

New Jersey’s top forward prospect has shown new wrinkles the past few days, looking dynamic while carrying the puck and showcasing more burst, explosiveness, and quick-twitch movement in his stride.

In the past Holtz has been rather pedestrian through the neutral zone, and a step slow, so the improvements we’ve seen are certainly a welcomed sight.

There’s a difference between making plays at the Prospects Challenge and against NHL competition, though, which is why I’d like to see Holtz get meaningful minutes in the coming weeks; ideally alongside 86.

There is no better player on the roster than Jack Hughes in terms of maximizing Holtz’ skillset.

If Holtz can keep up with Hughes – and put a couple pucks in the net along the way – it’d open up plenty of options for the coaching staff when the games actually count.

Lindy Ruff would be able to mix and match line combinations based on the situation of the game. Not only that, he’d have the ability to ice an established top-6 forward on the 3rd line, allowing said player softer matchups to take advantage of.

If Holtz is ready to contribute his presence would make the Devils an even more balanced, and threatening, offensive team. Giving him real minutes in a position to succeed is the best way to find out.

Jonas Siegenthaler with John Marino