New Jersey Devils News

Hamilton will take warmups and is expected to play in Game 1 vs. the Bruins.

As expected, it looks like Hamilton will make his long-awaited return in Game 1 vs. his former team. Head coach Rod Brind'Amour did not announce who would come out of the lineup for Hamilton but it's expected to be Haydn Fleury. Hamilton will likely skate with Jaccob Slavin and quarterback the top power-play unit, bumping Sami Vatanen to PP2.

Dougie Hamilton
Hamilton could play in Game 1 vs. the Bruins.

Hamilton was on the ice again for Monday's practice and head coach Rod Brind'Amour said he is "hopeful" that Hamilton will be ready for Game 1 on Tuesday. It would be his first game since January 16th. He had 40 points (14G / 26A) in 47 regular-season games before breaking his leg vs. Columbus.

Dougie Hamilton
Hamilton returned to Hurricanes' practice on Thursday.

Hamilton, who missed the Hurricanes' three-game sweep of the Rangers, practiced for the first time since July 22nd. Carolina likely won't play for a week, so Hamilton will have plenty of time to get back up to speed before Round 1. In practice Hamilton skated alongside Jaccob Slavin on the Hurricanes' top defensive pair. He was also the lone defenseman on the team's first power-play unit.

Dougie Hamilton