News and notes from the team's Oct. 30 practice in Newark.
On Oct. 30, the New Jersey Devils held an 11:30 A.M. practice at RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House.
The team will play 13 games in November, including eight on the road. New Jersey earned a 2-0-0 road record in October. Their next game is scheduled for Nov. 2 versus the Minnesota Wild.
What You Need to Know
-Head coach Lindy Ruff confirmed that Kevin Bahl missed practice due to illness. The blueliner's ice time on Sunday evening versus the Wild was 20:52.
- The team announced that veteran Erik Haula took a maintenance day.
- With Haula's absence, Nathan Bastian, who is still searching for his first point of the season, skated on two lines during drills at practice.
Justin Dowling Assigned to Comets
Ahead of practice, the Devils announced that forward Justin Dowling was assigned to the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League.
The 33-year-old was recalled on Oct. 29 after the organization placed defenseman Colin Miller on injured reserve. He participated in warmups but ultimately served as the extra forward when the Devils hosted the Wild at Prudential Center.
In four games with the Comets, the veteran center has three points, all assists.
The move leads some to believe that Hischier might be ready to jump back into the lineup on Thursday night at Xcel Energy Center, even though the team did not confirm a return date for their captain.
So, Is There An Update on Hischier?
After practice, Ruff said the 24-year-old is still being evaluated for his upper-body injury and is day-to-day. Regarding accompanying the team on their upcoming four-game road trip, New Jersey's bench boss said it is undetermined at this time.