Breaking down the New Jersey Devils ahead of NHL Free Agency.
Pending free agents
Unrestricted: 11 | Restricted: 10 | See full list
[teamleaders league=”nhl” team=”nj” season=”2013″]
Devils overview
After missing the playoffs for the second straight year, the New Jersey Devils are in desperate need to add some fire up front. They were one of the best defensive teams in the league through most of last season, though the Devils’ goals-against average saw a spike down the stretch as they faltered in the hunt for a playoff spot. Still, New Jersey led the league with just 25.5 shots against per game — edging out the eventual Cup-winning LA Kings for the fewest. That’s a significant strength.
The problem though, is that the Devils were 27th in shots on net and goals per game. The team’s leading scorer, by a mile, was 42-year-old super human Jaromir Jagr. New Jersey just hasn’t been able to replace what they lost in Ilya Kovalchuk and Zach Parise.
This will likely be the Devils’ first season in two decades without Martin Brodeur between the pipes. Arguably the greatest goaltender of all time, Brodeur plans to test the free agent market and wants to join a contender. He has said this will be his final season, and he’d certainly like to go out with another ring.
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| Click player positions to see depth chart | ||
Areas to address
The good news for New Jersey is that they play in the relatively weak Metropolitan Division, where every team has a decent shot at making the playoffs. The Devils were only a few games out of the final wild card spot in the East last season, and with their solid defending, they have to be considered a contender for the post-season again.
Cory Schneider wasn’t exceptional last season when he and Brodeur were splitting time in goal. He’ll be anxious to finally prove he’s the No. 1 guy he’s been projected to be, but never seems to get the chance to do. Consistency from Schneider will be key, and the Devils can count on it.
So again, the real issue is up front. There are a number of free agent options that would fit in nicely. The Devils are an old team. They need youth who can bring speed, agility and scoring. It would be surprising to see them go after some of the seasoned vets on auction. They have a good chunk of space under the cap, so the Devils could take a stab at a player looking to be a marquee guy.
Possible signing targets
Thomas Vanek (LW): A potential scoring threat that went to the Habs on loan for their playoff run after things didn’t work out with the Islanders. Vanek is a possible option, unless he’s looking for an instant Cup contender.
Paul Stastny (C): At 28 he’s a relatively young, goal-scoring centre — exactly what the Devils need. Could be a good fit, but he’ll be looking for top dollar.
Matt Moulson (LW): Another goal-scoring option the Devils could take a look at. He likely won’t re-sign with the Wild.
Mason Raymond (LW): Less sexy than the options above, but Raymond is a digger who can score. He’d be a good addition, at a cheaper price than some of the bigger names on the market.
