Pucks and Pitchforks
Fansided

Grading Each New Jersey Devils Players’ Playoff Performances

By Jonathan Bailey

New Jersey Devils celebrate their win over the New York Rangers in game seven of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
New Jersey Devils celebrate their win over the New York Rangers in game seven of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /
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New Jersey Devils
Michael McLeod #20 of the New Jersey Devils. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Wait, what? That Michael McLeod?

We have never seen Michael McLeod play like this at the NHL level. Back in the day with the Mississauga Steelheads of the OHL, McLeod was a very good playoff performer. He carried his team to the OHL Finals in 2017, scoring 27 points in 20 games. Maybe this is a legitimate thing.

For whatever reason, McLeod attacked in the offensive zone, carried the puck, and looked for passes like never before seen. His performance was better than anyone could have ever asked for, and his two short-handed goals were a big reason as to why the Devils made it as far as they did. After being relegated to the fourth line forever, McLeod deserves his flowers for an incredible showing.

Next. How Devils Went From 2nd Overall To Banner Season. dark

It will certainly be interesting to see what his next contract might look like this summer. He is one of the many Devils looking at a restricted free agent situation.

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