Some thoughts on the guys battling for spots:
McIlrath - Looked really, really solid. The penalty he took in the first was a bad one, but he was tip-toeing that line between headshot and highlight reel hit, and unfortunately it wound up the wrong way. Other than that, I thought he had a very strong showing. Used his size and reach well, made some nice outlet passes, was positionally sound, and even led a couple nice rushes up the ice. Overall he just looks more comfortable in his body. I think if he can keep up this level of consistency, he's got the 6/7 spot locked down.
Lindberg - Was a little quiet until the goal, but that's his game. Solid all around and can chip in some offense here and there. Wasn't keeping tabs on him in the dot, but had a decent game.
Bourque - Definitely can create with his speed, but he's just so weak along the boards. I think he might crack an NHL lineup this season, but I think it'll be elsewhere.
Hrivik - Guy is a monster on the boards and great on the backcheck, but he's a step slow doing everything else. Another guy who I think could be a NHL forward, just might not be room for him here.
Skjei - Really up and down. Had some great plays, especially offensively early in the first, but kinda lost his space in the 2nd and early 3rd. Bad decision to chase behind the net on the 1st Devils goal. Definitely rebounded later in the game though. I think he'll be NHL ready by next season and there's no reason to rush him with the left-side being so strong.
Stalberg - I thought he was okay. Some shifts where he looked really engaged, then huge spans where I never noticed him. Goal was a fluke, but you like to see a guy trying to get the puck on the net whenever he can.
Megna - Thought this guy might be a dark horse coming into camp. Definitely embodies the style of player that AV likes on the 4th line. High energy, pretty responsible, and has a bit of a scoring touch. Will probably be Hartford bound, but a nice showing from him tonight.
Gibbons - Solid water-bug type and had a strong game in the offensive zone. Unfortunately I think he's one of those guys who isn't quite versatile enough for a 4th line role, and not potent enough to win a top-9 spot on this team.
Diaz - Showed a lot on the PP, but that's to be expected. Good vision on the rush, but still looks lost in his own end. Lost his man quite a few times.
Adam - Another guy who shows flashes, but has some limiting factors. Mainly his lack of a first step. Once he gets moving he's tough to handle, and he's strong on the boards, but man he's slow out of the gate. The roster is too deep for him to crack, IMO, but if he clears waivers he'll be a real good add for Hartford.