NHL Season Secrets: Uncover the Surprising Strengths, Hidden Weaknesses, and Game-Changing X Factors for Every Team
Biggest concern: New Jersey finally locked in top defenseman Luke Hughes on a seven-year deal … but what impact will his delayed offseason because of shoulder surgery have on his preparedness for the season? And when Hughes is up and running, will he be ready to be the leader of a defensive core riddled with questions?
Johnathan Kovacevic is out indefinitely. Brett Pesce struggled in his debut season with the Devils. Jonas Siegenthaler will be working in a new partner, and Simon Nemec is coming off a 2024-25 season spent yo-yoing between the NHL and AHL. New Jersey was fifth in fewest goals against last season (2.68 per game) thanks in large part to some strong goaltending from Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. The Devils are banking on having enough defensive help for them to be an effective duo again. If not, there’s more pressure riding on the offense to produce.
Post Comment