2009-2010 record: 48-27-7 (103 points)
Lost to Philadelphia in 1st round 4-1
Captain: Jamie Langenbrunner
Alternate captains: Patrik Elias, Zach Parise
3 players to watch: For all of the playoff failures of recent seasons, much of that blame can be placed on not getting Martin Brodeur enough rest during the regular season. He still plays at a high level, and gives New Jersey some security in goal. The offseason drama of Ilya Kovalchuk was one of the more watched topics in the NHL. Now, with a 15 year contract in the triple digits (in millions), there is much pressure for him to perform, especially when the playoffs roll around. For as much as the blue line doesn't contribute to the offense, one player to watch is Andy Greene. With Paul Martin leaving for Pittsburgh, Greene is the team's best offensive threat...well, at least moving the puck to the forwards.
Things to look for: New Jersey is going to make the playoffs. That should be a pick sure to go right. However, all bets are off when it comes to the playoffs. It would help to have the likes of Kovalchuk, Zach Parise, and Travis Zajac putting up numbers. Kovalchuk is an automatic pick for 40 goals and is also a sure bet to disappear on defense. So, how he fits with the team (for the life of the contract) will be something to look for. An old face in Jason Arnott returns, and he adds grit and leadership, as well as a veteran presence who knows how to win. Brodeur is going to be Brodeur, but getting him to rest for 20 games or so is paramount, so the signing of Johan Hedberg is a first step in that direction. The committment to defense in the offseason was evident with the signings of Anton Volchenkov and Henrik Tallinder. Neither are offensive threats from the blue line, but they won't be allowing many scoring chances, either.
Prediction: 4th in the East
Song: Zimmers Hole-When You Were Shouting at the Devil
Fans will likely be shouting at the Devils if they don't make it past the first round again this year.
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