5 Bold Predictions For New Jersey Devils This Season

Jesper Bratt Will Score A Point Per Game

Speaking of Bratt, his contract dispute lasted way too long, but there’s one small positive in his visa issue and quarantine. This will give him time to work with Lindy Ruff through video conferencing and on-ice training. Ruff can work with Bratt while he’s stuck in Sweden, and then he can implement what he learns quickly once he’s cleared to play.

Bratt is going to hit the ground running in this offense. It moves very fast, and his ability to play good defense will have Ruff trusting him in important moments when the Devils need to score. The fact he can get the puck back if there’s a turnover is crucial in desperate situations.

Bratt will also play most of the season with Hischier based on how the lines are setting up. He will likely also play with Johnsson, who can absolutely score. This will help Bratt get his point totals up.

Bratt is going to play around 45 games this season. It is absolutely possible to have the Devils winger score 45 points in those 45 games. He’s going to be extremely motivated to prove he’s a top-six forward. He has everything working in his favor. Last season, he ended the season with 16 points in 20 games. If he can up his production only slightly, he will get to a point per game for the entire season.