Sam Bennett's impending contract with the Florida Panthers is drawing significant attention, with both sides eager to finalize a long-term deal. There's speculation that an eight-year contract could be on the table, potentially valued between $7.5 million to $8 million per year. The Panthers may have already increased their initial offer, structured similarly to Carter Verhaeghe's deal, which included unique bonuses and no-movement clauses.

On the other hand, Brad Marchand's market value is estimated to be around $24 million, attracting interest from teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Los Angeles Kings. Additionally, Aaron Ekblad's future with the Panthers remains uncertain as discussions for an extension have quieted since last offseason. Meanwhile, Cody Glass may not receive a qualifying offer from the New Jersey Devils, leaving his future in limbo.

The New Jersey Devils face significant challenges as defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon have been ruled out for Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes due to injuries suffered in Game 1. Coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed both players did not participate in the morning skate, and their absence adds to the team's struggles, already missing top center Jack Hughes and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler.

In their place, Simon Nemec and Dennis Cholowski will make their playoff debuts. The Devils need to enhance their performance after a disappointing 4-1 loss in the series opener, where they were outshot and struggled to find their rhythm. With Cody Glass cleared to play, the team will rely on its depth and resilience to bounce back against a formidable Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils face uncertainty regarding player availability for Game 2 of their Stanley Cup playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes. With star forward Jack Hughes and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler already sidelined, the team is now evaluating the statuses of Brenden Dillon, Luke Hughes, and Cody Glass, who exited Game 1 due to injuries. The Devils fell 4-1 in their series opener due to being outshot 45-24, prompting coach Sheldon Keefe to express the need for improved performance from the entire roster.

The Hurricanes capitalized on their chances, with Logan Stankoven scoring twice in a commanding second period. Meanwhile, Nico Hischier managed to score for New Jersey, providing a glimmer of hope late in the second period. Keefe emphasized a stronger team effort, stating that all players must contribute more to overcome a resilient Hurricanes squad.

The New Jersey Devils faced a worrying wave of injuries during their Game 1 playoff matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, culminating in a 4-1 loss. Defenseman Brenden Dillon was sidelined after being injured in a collision, while Cody Glass also exited the game, leaving the Devils further depleted. Earlier, Luke Hughes briefly left the ice but returned later. The situation is exacerbated by the absence of key players, including Jack Hughes and Jonas Siegenthaler, due to previous injuries. Coach Sheldon Keefe remains optimistic about Dillon's quick recovery, though the team will need to adapt as they prepare for Game 2 against Carolina.

Buffalo Sabres forward Josh Norris is reportedly skating on his own, leading to optimism about his return before the end of the season. Meanwhile, teammate Tyson Kozak has been sidelined due to a hip strain, projected as week-to-week. In Carolina, Andrei Svechnikov is being held out as a precaution, while Jamie Benn of the Dallas Stars participated in practice but remains doubtful for today's matchup against Pittsburgh. Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl is expected to miss some time but could be back for the playoffs, joining Connor McDavid, who has missed six games due to a lower-body injury. The New Jersey Devils' Cody Glass has been playing through a nagging injury but will now take time off to recover.