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New Jersey Devils: 5 Predictions For Second Half Of Season

By Nick Villano

Mar 23, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils center Janne Kuokkanen (59), defenseman Sami Vatanen (45) and goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood (29) celebrate win against the Philadelphia Flyers during the third period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New Jersey Devils center Janne Kuokkanen (59), defenseman Sami Vatanen (45) and goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood (29) celebrate win against the Philadelphia Flyers during the third period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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New Jersey Devils
New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86): (Bruce Bennett/Pool Photos-USA TODAY Sports) /

Jack Hughes Leads Team In Goals

The Devils goal leader for the first half was the obviously predicted Miles Wood. (Kidding.) He currently has nine goals, which shouldn’t be enough to lead a team after 30 games, but we are not in a normal season. Wood is having himself one of the better bounce-back seasons in recent memory, but that likely won’t keep him in the lead for goals for long.

Currently, there are three players who are tied for second on the team in goals. Yegor Sharangovich is the surprise of the group, with seven goals on the season. He was absolutely great during his time in the KHL before the season, but many thought he’d still be trying to build his game in the AHL. However, he’s earned his spot in the NHL. Pavel Zacha is the other surprise, as he’s been much better as a role player this season.

It’s still going to be Jack Hughes who is above them all by the end of the season. He’s had his struggles this season, but his advanced stats are off the charts. It’s clear he just needs a finish on his wing, and he might get two by the end of the season depending on which prospects the Devils end up signing.

According to Natural Stat Trick, Hughes is second on the team in individual high-danger chances. He’s first in penalties drawn, which will lead to more power-play opportunities. He’s number one on the team in takeaways, which is eventually going to lead to more breakaway chances. These numbers are all at even strength.

The real reason he’s going to start potting more goals is the power play is going to make changes. Yes, we’ve been waiting for it, but eventually, the Devils will put him in a positive spot with a man advantage. In 83 minutes with at least a man advantage, Hughes has nine shots. That’s pathetic, and the Devils have to change that. He’s going to get more opportunities, and that will lead to more goals.

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