New Jersey Devils: 5 burning questions for 2018-19
By Kyle McKenna
The New Jersey Devils shocked everyone by making the playoffs last season. Can they keep their momentum going this year?
The New Jersey Devils not only answered their critics last season, Jersey’s Team silenced any burning questions it had after the team exceeded expectations and clinched a berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for 2017-18.
Yet, there are new challenges on the horizon for phenom Nico Hischier and company. Here are five burning questions for the New Jersey Devils entering the 2018-19 season.
5. Is this Pavel Zacha’s breakout season?
New Jersey witnessed some glimpses last season for what forward Pavel Zacha may have to offer on a more consistent basis heading into 2018-19, while skating with the Devils’ top-nine forwards. Though, it appeared that Zacha’s development and offensive production hasn’t progressed to the point where the Devils would expect it to be.
In the Czech’s second full season with Jersey’s team, the youngster essentially recorded an identical campaign in comparison to 2016-17 (eight goals, 16 assists). Zacha, 21, averaged 14:22 of ice-time last season, but only managed to find the back of the net eight times and chipped in 17 helpers for 25 points on the year.
Back. Forth. Pass. Goal.
— NHL (@NHL) October 12, 2017
Lovely passing from the Bratt-@mjohansson90-@Pavel_Zacha unit. #NJDvsTOR https://t.co/LIJ8YwjCy9
His shot and release point looked impressive at times, as did his presence and composure in front of the opposition’s net. Still, the former sixth-overall selection (2015) appeared a step behind and heavy on his feet when moving the puck up the ice.
On the bright side, Zacha is young and management won’t let him digress. Keep in mind that he was New Jersey general manager, Ray Shero’s, first-ever draft selection for the Devils. The 6-foot-3 forward has gained some valuable experience and exposure over the past two seasons, and he did have a strong finish to last season after recording six points in the team’s final nine games (two goals, four assists).
He finished with 29 more shots on goal last season, 112, than in 2016-17, and expect Zacha’s role with the team to increase considering that the team stayed quiet during 2018’s UFA period.