How Devils' Joey Anderson, Michael McLeod, Blake Speers and Ty Smith are approaching Prospects Challenge

Devils prospects will kick off their preseason on Friday with the start of the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo. Three games over four days will get 26 prospects off and running before NHL training camp opens next week.

For all prospects, this weekend marks the start of an audition for an NHL roster spot. Evaluations begin, and some players will take a step forward toward their dream of playing in the NHL. Here's a look at how a few players — Joey Anderson, Michael McLeod, Blake Speers and Ty Smith — are approaching the Prospects Challenge, and what they expect to gain from the games.

Among the Devils' first-time attendees at the Prospects Challenge is Joey Anderson. The 2016 third-round pick…