New Jersey Devils: 5 Players Who Were Rolling Before Season Paused
By Mike Luci
Jesper Bratt
GP: 60 G: 16 A: 16
| Stat | 10/2-12/31 | 1/1-3/11 |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 34 | 26 |
| Goals | 8 | 8 |
| Assists | 7 | 9 |
One of the biggest reasons why it’s such a shame the season had to be suspended for the New Jersey Devils was the outstanding (and consistent) play of Jesper Bratt. The 21-year old forward set a new career-high in goals (16) and was three points shy of passing his high in points (35). Since he was scratched by the coaching staff (who ambiguously cited consistency as the reason) in February, Bratt has stepped up mightily (and already was prior to being scratched).
Over 18 games since February 1, Bratt has seven goals and 13 points. In the traditional first half of this season, Bratt averaged .44 points per game in 34 contests, increasing his gamely output by nearly 50 percent (.65) over his last 26 matches since January. One of the biggest attributes to Bratt’s improved performance have been his shot totals. He registered 49 shots on net over the 34 games from October to December (1.44 shots per game). Since January, Bratt has tallied 52 shots on net in his last 26 contests (an even 2 shots per game).
Bratt’s shot percentage this season is 15.8 percent—the second-highest among New Jersey Devils with at least 60 games played—and has remained between 15.4 and 16.3 percent over the season’s 2019 and 2020 sections. Simply put, Bratt’s improved play has coincided with him shooting more. That is paying major dividends.