New Jersey Devils team preview: Can they prove to be a serious contender?
S
Sportsnet
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The New Jersey Devils are gearing up for the 2023-2024 NHL season with heightened expectations after their impressive performance last year. With a roster brimming with talent, led by the likes of Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier, the Devils aim to build on their playoff success and solidify their status as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
A focal point for the Devils this season will be their dynamic offensive play, which saw significant contributions from players such as Jesper Bratt and Tomas Tatar last year. The team's ability to maintain its scoring prowess while tightening up defensively will be crucial. Head Coach Lindy Ruff is optimistic, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and addressing areas that require improvement in the defensive zone.
In goal, the Devils will rely on Vitek Vanecek, who helped steer the team into the postseason with his strong performances last year. His development, along with the potential for rookie goaltender Akira Schmid to make an impact, adds depth and intrigue to the team's goaltending situation. The combination of experienced players and promising young talent positions the Devils as a team to watch this season.
Fans are eager to see how the team mesh and if they can overcome past playoff disappointments to make a deeper run. The Devils have the makings of a franchise that could pose significant challenges in the years to come, especially with their evolving roster and skilled core of players ready to take the next step in their careers.
A focal point for the Devils this season will be their dynamic offensive play, which saw significant contributions from players such as Jesper Bratt and Tomas Tatar last year. The team's ability to maintain its scoring prowess while tightening up defensively will be crucial. Head Coach Lindy Ruff is optimistic, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and addressing areas that require improvement in the defensive zone.
In goal, the Devils will rely on Vitek Vanecek, who helped steer the team into the postseason with his strong performances last year. His development, along with the potential for rookie goaltender Akira Schmid to make an impact, adds depth and intrigue to the team's goaltending situation. The combination of experienced players and promising young talent positions the Devils as a team to watch this season.
Fans are eager to see how the team mesh and if they can overcome past playoff disappointments to make a deeper run. The Devils have the makings of a franchise that could pose significant challenges in the years to come, especially with their evolving roster and skilled core of players ready to take the next step in their careers.