Well, the air was taken out of this one. Connor Hellebuyck was supposed to make his much-anticipated return to Winnipeg. However, the New Jersey Devils announced Sunday night that Jake Allen will make the start instead. 

There's still a lot of unknown surrounding the situation. Hellebuyck will speak to the Winnipeg media following the morning skate and will provide some answers and potentially clear the air. Otherwise, the Devils move right along and face a Jets team that will want to make a statement. 

The New Jersey Devils play the second of a back-to-back and make the trip to Canada as they face the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are also on the second of a back-to-back. It suggests some sloppy play from both teams and a lot of goals. That said, the Devils have Connor Hellebuyck starting with extra rest. 

That's a good place to start. But first, some quick stats.

Third times a charm? Let's do it with the third edition of the pregame thoughts. This time, it's with the New Jersey Devils facing the New York Islanders on Saturday night at UBS Arena (7:00 PM start). 

Before diving in, let's look at these two teams. 

Time for take two. After posting some thoughts ahead of the game against the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday, it's a good time to do the same as the New Jersey Devils host the St. Louis Blues tonight (7:00 PM Eastern start time for this one, a big plus for those covering the game). 

First, let's take a quick glance at the two teams. 

The New Jersey Devils training camp roster features six goaltenders, 18 defensemen, and 33 forwards. The players first on-ice session is scheduled for Thursday. 

In case you missed it: Nico Hischier was a part of a heroic rescue in Switzerland.