New Jersey Devils: Offensive Power and Defensive Standouts from Last Season
The New Jersey Devils had a strong offensive performance last season, with several players excelling in high-danger shots on goal. Players like Nico Hischier, Stefan Noesen, Timo Meier, and Dawson Mercer contributed to the team's success in generating high-danger scoring opportunities. Hischier led the team with a career-high 35 goals and was among the top players in the League in high-danger goals.
Goalie Jacob Markstrom played a crucial role in the Devils' success, leading the team in high-danger save percentage during the regular season and the Stanley Cup Playoffs. With backup Jake Allen also performing well, the Devils have a solid goaltending tandem heading into the new season.
The Devils were impressive on the power play last season, ranking third in the League with a franchise single-season record of 28.2 percent. Players like Hischier and Noesen were key contributors to the power-play success, with six different skaters scoring at least five power-play goals.
Despite facing injuries to key players, the Devils are expected to have a strong power-play unit this season. Players like Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Jack Hughes have high offensive zone time percentages, indicating their ability to maintain possession in the offensive zone during power plays.
Luke Hughes emerged as a standout defenseman for the Devils last season, leading the team's defensemen in points and showcasing impressive speed and offensive skills. His performance, along with the return to full health of his brother Jack, bodes well for the Devils' future success and playoff contention in the coming years.