New Jersey Devils: 5 Bold Predictions For 2022-23 Season

Ah, here we go again. The NHL season is finally upon us. The New York Rangers hype train is going full speed after they beat the Tampa Bay Lightning on opening night. Now, it’s time for the New Jersey Devils to meet the hype train of their Hudson River Rivals. To do that, a lot has to go right. The Devils need to be better, and their best players have to be great.

This is a crucial year for the Devils. We say it constantly because it’s true. Lindy Ruff is fighting for his job. Tom Fitzgerald is fighting for his job. Jesper Bratt and Yegor Sharangovich are fighting for long-term deals. Alex Holtz is fighting for his NHL shot. So are Simon Nemec and Kevin Bahl. Then, there are the seven players who will become unrestricted free agents at the end of the season.

There is a lot on the line this season, and it could lead to some kooky things happening. That should make this year’s bold prediction piece as wild as ever. Let’s jump right in.

Prediction #1: Jack Hughes Leads Metropolitan Division In Points

Jack Hughes took a huge step in his development last season. He showed he is indeed a superstar despite the injuries. This year, he has a line that is very, very interesting. He will start the season with Alex Holtz and Ondrej Palat as his wings. They both bring something incredible to the table, and it should fit Hughes like a glove.

That leads us to the prediction. Hughes is going to lead the Metropolitan Division in points this season. No, we don’t think he’s going to beat Connor McDavid or Auston Matthews just yet. However, he is going to be the top scorer in his own division. Last season, Artemi Panarin led the Metro with 96 points. Expect Hughes to take that crown this season.