New Jersey Devils: 5 Bold Predictions For 2022-23 Season
By Nick Villano
Prediction #4: Power Play Finishes Season In Top Ten
Okay, this one might be going a little overboard, but let’s go through the facts. The Devils have Jack Hughes, one of the best possession players in the league already. They have great shooters on the team including Alex Holtz, Tomas Tatar, and Jesper Bratt. Nico Hischier adds enough offensively to make an impact.
On top of that, the X factor is Andrew Brunette. He is a reigning Jack Adams candidate who got the best out of the Florida Panthers’ power play. Their 24.43% success rate was almost 10% better than the Devils. The Panthers were an incredible offensive team, and the Devils want to play in a similar light.
The Devils have all the pieces in place. Their preseason power play did not breed confidence, but don’t expect them to keep Lindy Ruff’s system if it shows early that it isn’t working. They aren’t taking chances with special teams this year. Last year the power play was awful. The year before it was the penalty kill. This year, both special teams have to click.
The Devils have great offensive weapons, and it should easily lead to points with the man advantage. Expect the Devils to break 23% on the power play, good for the top ten in the NHL.