Coming into the year, the New Jersey Devils had a lot to answer for. They were fresh off an extremely disappointing year, finishing 7th in the Metropolitan Division. It felt like a blow to the expectations and hopes of fans who saw the renaissance of the team they love. But a few months into the 2024-25 season, it seems those hopes may still be realized.
While they started low and disjointed, the Sheldon Keefe Effect in New Jersey is in full force. They now own the 6th best-expected goals allowed per 60 and the best-expected goal differential, according to MoneyPuck. One may think that the Devils found a time machine and returned to the 90s, playing low-event, harsh Trap hockey that won them two Stanley Cups. But that is far from the case.
The Modern Devils have achieved these incredible defensive numbers through strong, possession-based, and quick hockey that sees them transition through the zones at a rapid rate. Unlike their 2022-23 counterparts, the Devils now have the size and strength of the team in high positions in the lineup to dictate games in various ways.
They can use the Nico Hischier line to funnel pucks net-front for Stefan Noesen tap-ins or the Jack Hughes line to create and capitalize off turnovers. While possession-based, the Devils' focus is on creating and limiting chances by being on the front foot. When executed correctly, it has all the makings of being the perfect system to win championships.
They also differ from their 90s selves as well. While the Devils have been able to accomplish similar results, they attain it in a proactive way. The trap is all about forcing teams to give up possession and clogging up the neutral zone to slow games down. The principles of this remain true - the Devils are a difficult team to rush against. But instead of slowing the game down, the modern Devils focus on quick plays and retaining possession in the offensive zone. They try to smother the opposition in their own defensive zone, leading to low-probability puck rims and turnovers. In a lot of ways, the Devils have literally advanced the trap further up the ice, effectively bottlenecking teams.
The New Jersey Devils' defensive system is making them true contenders this season
Much to thank for this is the system and confidence Sheldon Keefe has brought to the roster. Players like Jonas Sigenthaler have seen career revivals, whereas players like Jack and Luke have seen new developments in the defensive side of the puck. Jack legitimately has been playing at a Selke level, and Luke has been among the best defenders in the league this month.
When injuries have occurred and call for replacements, the coach and system have allowed the AHLers to step in seamlessly. Justin Dowling, in particular, has looked more than capable. Above all, Keefe has been able to get these players to buy in and commit to themselves, leading to historic results.
This new-found focus came to a head these past few weeks. Over the last seven games, culminating in the 5-0 win over the Rangers, the Devils have not let their opponents cross the 20-shot threshold. That is an NHL record. They have also won back-to-back games with 12-save shutouts. These are awe-inspiring feats and only embolden the claim that the Devils are true threats to the Cup.