5 NHL teams set to take a serious step back this season
By Kyle McKenna
4. New Jersey Devils
The New Jersey Devils making this list isn’t to say that Jersey’s Team will be terrible, but compared to last season, the Devils will take a significant step back in 2018-19.
Yes, New Jersey has the youthful assets and some key veterans in all areas on the ice, but some of the team’s most promising youngsters may experience some growing painsbas early as October.
The Metropolitan typically sends five teams to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but that might not be the case this season with a few of the Atlantic Division’s teams developing and improving.
The Devils’ front office wasn’t necessarily wrong to spend big money on a below-average free-agent class this offseason, but New Jersey didn’t improve its roster either. While Jersey stayed put, teams such as the Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals appear poised to clinch the top three spots in the division.
Expect New Jersey to compete with the Columbus Blue Jackets and, yes, the New York Rangers for a playoff spot; but the reality is that both of those teams mentioned above arguably could finish ahead of New Jersey in the 2019 standings.
Last season’s magical fun to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and stellar play from goaltender Keith Kinkaid just doesn’t seem feasible two years in a row. Plus with the team losing key veterans such as John Moore and Patrick Maroon — New Jersey may not produce as much scoring as last season and on the power play.
The depth isn’t quite there yet on offense, and the defense is still relying on two skaters too often. Perhaps 2019 will be a step back for New Jersey but to take one giant step forward in 2020.