Andreas Johnsson: 28 pts
My Prediction: OVER
Andreas Johnsson was acquired by New Jersey in a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs for Joey Anderson. Johnsson scored 21 points in 43 games last season on a stacked Maple Leafs team. Johnsson is most likely going to have a top-six role with the Devils. He will bring additional speed, skill, and grit to the team. Due to his numbers, while playing on a limited role and having some experience with playing with players like Auston Matthews, Johnsson will transfer the skills he obtained from Toronto and become a top-six winger. Johnsson will score 30 points in 56 games.
Jesper Bratt: 32 Points
My Prediction: LOWER
Jesper Bratt saw a drop in total production last year by scoring 32 points in 60 games. He produced this much in the middle of a season where there were changes in management and coaching staff. Also, the team was not good. Despite the drop in points, Bratt displayed great playmaking abilities as well as a scoring touch.
All of the skills are there, but he has to work on unleashing them. He has great chemistry with Hischier, and when Bratt returns from Sweden and finishes his quarantine, he will fit right into Ruff’s system and provide a big boost to the Devils’ roster. Bratt should have an increase in production this year. However, it’s not clear how many games Bratt will miss due to the late re-signing, issues with getting a visa, and quarantine. Therefore, I think Bratt will score a little lower than 32 points by scoring 28-30 points based on how many games he plays this season. Even so, Bratt will be very productive in the games he will play.
Jesper Boqvist: 4 Points
My Prediction: OVER
Jesper Boqvist most likely found a spot on the starting roster after a strong showing at training camp. Boqvist saw some time in the NHL time last year but only scored four goals in 35 games. When he got sent down to the Binghamton Devils, Boqvist over time gained confidence and thrived. During the ten-month break, he was one of the players that had the opportunity to compete.
He got loaned to Timrå IK of Hockey Allsvenskan before this season. While there, he had 10 points in 13 games. His speed and creativity were well noticed. During training camp, Boqvist was very noticeable during the scrimmages. His puck movement, skating, and speed were on display and it led to multiple scoring chances. Thus, I see Boqvist scoring at least 20 points this season. The Devils need Boqvist to step up this year because he is great at the shootout. Boqvist can be the difference maker in how the Devils finish in the standings if a lot of the games end in shootouts.