New Jersey Devils: Predicting Opening Night Forward Lines

Yegor Sharangovich – Jack Hughes – Alexander Holtz

That’s right. Not only did Alex Holtz make the opening night roster, but he’s on the first line. These three were absolute magic together in the team’s first preseason game against the Washington Capitals. They had three goals, with each getting a single goal to get everyone involved. They played well off each other. Someone brought something different to the table. Most importantly, this would give Jack Hughes two players who are able to finish from anywhere on the ice.

Hughes is primed for a huge year. On paper, it might not be ideal to put him with a rookie and a second-year player, but first and foremost the Devils need to surround him with talent. Holtz and Sharangovich have proven they are overflowing with talent. They can score, they can skate, and they can all make a move that gets them into open space. Also, they both have wicked shots that will take the focus off of Hughes.

Sharangovich looks like he is ready to build off of his breakout year. He was able to make his own chances, and he scored the overtime winner against the Islanders on Saturday after Jack Hughes left the game with an injury. He can do it by himself if he must, but he’s much better when he has Hughes setting him up.