NEWARK, NJ - The 2026-2027 season for the NJIT men's ice hockey team did not go the way they hoped. In a non-divisional ACHA game that was considered a preseason contest, the Stevens Ducks defeated the Highlanders 6-0 in their home opener.

Stevens and NJIT are now divisional opponents as the MCHC has separated their conference into 3 divisions. They will play out of the Atlantic West division and their next two matchups will matter in MCHC play. Highlanders started the season with a 0-1 record in ACHA play.

The Ducks scored first early in the 1st period in an even period for both sides. They would lead after one period by that same score. NJIT had some quality chances in the 2nd especially on the power play, but could not convert. Stevens would net three more goals and take a commanding 4-goal lead in the locker room after 40 minutes.

The 3rd period would be when the Ducks took complete control of the game. They would score two more late goals to put the game away for their 1st win of the season. Jaiden Delgado made 31 saves in his 1st appearance as a Highlander.

Saves - Delgado 31

SOG
NJIT - 44;  Stevens - 37 

PP
Stevens - 1 for 6;NJIT - 0 for 5

PK
Stevens - 5 for 5; NJIT - 5 for 6

NJIT's next game will be their home opener at RWJ against the Drexel Dragons next Sunday at 5:30.