In the recent game between the New Jersey Devils and the Florida Panthers, it became evident that the team is still grappling with the absence of star center Jack Hughes. Without his exceptional offensive talent, the Devils’ performance has noticeably dipped. Last season, after losing Hughes due to injury on March 2, the Devils managed a mediocre 9-10-1 record, scoring an average of just 2.8 goals per game and struggling with a 32.6% success rate on the power play. Fast forward to this season, in the three games without him, the Devils have only won one, scoring a meager four goals and realizing a significantly low 11.1% power play conversion rate.
Looking ahead, should Hughes return before Christmas, he would miss at least 15 more games. This raises serious concerns about how the team will perform in his absence. Despite having numerous power play opportunities, the Devils have failed to generate consistent offensive momentum during regular play, which is critical for their success.
One must consider the unique challenges impacting the team’s lineup. Last season, General Manager Tom Fitzgerald made a notable trade for forward Cody Glass, who initially provided a spark before succumbing to injuries. This year, without Glass and with Juho Lammikko filling in at center, the Devils have struggled to find offensive balance. With Lammikko, a player more suited for a defensive role, centering a line that includes offensive players like Ondrej Palat and Evgenii Dadonov, the mix has not yielded the desired results.
To address this situation, the Devils have several possible strategies. One option could be repositioning winger Paul Cotter to center, where he showed promise during brief usage. Another strategy might involve calling up players from their AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, where forwards like Xavier Parent and Angus Crookshank are demonstrating offensive capabilities. However, relying on call-ups may not provide the immediate impact needed.
The third approach is seeking external help through trades. With the Devils lacking adequate depth to handle multiple injuries at center, pursuing acquisitions might be necessary. Players on waivers like Alexandre Texier could offer temporary relief, but financial constraints and contract negotiations complicate this path. The team might also explore trades with struggling teams, such as the Edmonton Oilers or Nashville Predators, to strengthen their lineup.
However, it isn’t solely the front office’s responsibility. The top players—Nico Hischier, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier—need to elevate their game. Together, they have only netted 14 goals through 20 games this season, significantly below last season’s pace, which could spell trouble for the team’s overall performance.
In conclusion, while the Devils face considerable challenges without Hughes, the front office’s decisions combined with greater contributions from key players could pave the way for a more successful stint until his return. Fans remain hopeful that the team can find its stride and overcome this hurdle, illustrating resilience in the face of adversity.