2017-18 record: 44-29-9 (97 points)
Lost to Tampa Bay in Conference quarterfinals
Captain: TBA
The New Jersey Devils turned low expectations into a playoff berth, where they were cast aside in five games by the Tampa Bay Lightning. How did they get in? The mid-season acquisition of Sami Vatanen and an MVP-type season from Taylor Hall will do it. Making the playoffs again this season is feasible, given the weak Eastern Conference, but whether they can is up in the air, as they made no moves worth noting.
The offense improved from near last to middle of the pack thanks to Hall. In his second year with the team, Hall showed that he could indeed put a team on his back. While there is a possibility of regression, Hall isn't without help, as Marcus Johansson and Kyle Palmieri are more than capable of contributing. Nico Hischier also helped, and more will be expected in his second year in the league. Where the Devils need more contributions from is Pavel Zacha, who is still trying to figure out how to use his big body to contribute both offensively and defensively. The defensive corps was improved, particularly when Vatanen joined the team and stabilized the unit. Will Butcher was also a key player in his rookie year. This unit will be much better if Damon Severson actually cares a little more about his own end. In goal is where things get dicey, as Cory Schneider was mediocre last season and he may miss time to start this season. Keith Kinkaid was at times, the better goalie, and he will likely have to do so again, particularly if Schneider doesn't rediscover his form.
Prediction: 6th in the Metropolitan Division
The Devils have enough talent to sneak into the playoffs. The problem is that because they are counting on a lot to improve from within, there is little room for error. Being on the edge of the playoff line is where New Jersey is likely to end up, but whether it is on the right side of that line is questionable, at best.
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