On today’s New Jersey Devils Daily, what the team has to do to make the playoffs, why the Metropolitan Division will be a bloodbath and Jesper Boqvist’s determination to make it to the NHL.
Pucks and Pitchforks takes a look at what needs to happen for the New Jersey Devils to make the playoffs. A lot of things have to go right for the team to be a contender, and most of all is the man in net. Cory Schneider is the key for the Devils season. If he plays like he did last season, the team will be near the bottom of the league again. There are other reasons, including a breakout season by Nico Hischier and a top 15 offense, that can lead the Devils to the playoffs.
New Jersey Devils: What Needs To Happen To Make Playoffs
Chris Ryan with NJ.com looks at the Devils most vulnerable position; the defense. The list of players who could play with the team is longer than usual. Players like Joshua Jacobs and Colton White will be getting some playing time if the Devils go into this season with the defense as currently constructed. Obviously, that isn’t something to get excited about, but there is room for improvement. Ben Lovejoy couldn’t be worse than he was last year (hopefully) and Andy Greene has a chance to reverse time for one season.
Devils’ depth chart: A look at defensemen and goalies for 2017-18
Gerard Lionetti with All About the Jersey talks about what to expect from the Metropolitan Division this season. On paper, this division is the best in the league. The Devils and Islanders could both have very competitive teams in the Western Conference, but could end up last in the Metro. According to the article, every team either got better or stayed the same outside of the Washington Capitals, and they still have Alexander Ovechkin leading a very good team.
The Metropolitan Division Will be a Bloodbath in 2017-18
Kaitlyn Kaminski with NHL.com talks about Devils second-round pick Jesper Boqvist and his path to the NHL. He is playing in Sweden’s top league this season, and has shown improvement at every stop. He was hard to scout because he was moved to three different teams last season. However, he has great skill, speed and continues to improve.
Boqvist determined to forge path to NHL with Devils
Todd Correll with Hockey Buzz looks at the Devils and a possible pairing with defenseman Cody Franson. While he fills a need at right-handed defenseman, it would be hard to play both him and Ben Lovejoy, who the team is stuck with for two more seasons. He would probably take a spot on the third line that would be better suited for Mirco Mueller or Steve Santini.