Devils’ Slide Continues - And So Do the Questions About the Future
Saturday’s 4-1 loss to the Senators didn’t just sting - it felt like the final blow in what’s been a frustrating, underwhelming season for the New Jersey Devils. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the reality is setting in: this team, once projected to be a contender, is now staring down the barrel of a lost season.
Let’s break it down.
According to Money Puck, the Devils now have just an 8.9% chance of making the playoffs - eighth worst in the league. That number was at 27% just a week ago. The drop-off has been steep, and it’s not hard to see why.
Saturday’s game was a perfect snapshot of the season. Had the Devils managed a win, they would’ve been just five points out of a playoff spot thanks to the Islanders’ collapse against the Predators.
But once again, they couldn’t find a timely goal or a timely save. That’s been the theme all year - close, but not close enough.
And in the NHL, “almost” doesn’t get you into the postseason.
At this point, fans are already turning to the draft lottery simulator - and it only took two spins to land the Devils the No. 1 overall pick. It’s that kind of year.
No Room for Panic Moves
With the trade deadline looming, there’s one thing the front office cannot afford to do: make a desperation move. Ownership and general manager Tom Fitzgerald need to resist the urge to try and salvage a sinking ship with a short-term fix.
This team isn’t one piece away from turning things around. The focus should be on the long-term picture, not a Hail Mary trade that costs future assets for a fleeting chance at relevance this season.
To his credit, Fitzgerald did pull off a smart move this week, offloading Ondrej Palat’s hefty contract. That’s the kind of forward-looking decision the Devils need more of.
But let’s not forget - Fitzgerald was the one who signed Palat to that deal in the first place. Cleaning up your own mess is important, but it doesn’t erase the original mistake.
More Injury Woes for Jack Hughes
As if things weren’t bleak enough, Jack Hughes exited Thursday’s overtime win against the Predators with a lower-body injury. Head coach Sheldon Keefe said Saturday the injury isn’t serious and that Hughes should be back soon, but it’s yet another missed game for the Devils’ franchise cornerstone. And once again, they lost without him.
Hughes’ health has been a recurring issue this season, and it’s becoming a major concern - not just for the Devils’ present, but for their long-term trajectory. They need him on the ice, plain and simple.
Some Bright Spots Amid the Gloom
It’s not all doom and gloom in Newark. Cody Glass has quietly been one of the Devils’ best players over the last few weeks, racking up 10 points in his last 10 games, including six goals. Health has been a hurdle for him, but when he’s in the lineup, he’s producing at a high level.
And then there’s the young duo of Arseny Gritsyuk and Lenni Hameenaho. When those two are on the ice together, the Devils have a 5-0 goal advantage and a staggering 71.35% expected goals for percentage, per Natural Stat Trick.
That’s not just promising - that’s dominant. The chemistry is real, and it’s something the Devils can build around moving forward.
Also, word is the team’s new alternate jersey is “pretty.” No confirmation yet, but hey, a little aesthetic win never hurts during a tough season.
Jack Hughes and the Olympic Question
One question making the rounds right now: should Jack Hughes be going to the Olympics?
It’s a fair concern. On one hand, playing for your country is a dream for most NHL players, and Hughes is no different.
On the other, if he’s not 100% and he misses more time for the Devils during a critical stretch, it’s going to raise eyebrows. The optics wouldn’t be great - especially in a season where every game is a must-win.
At the end of the day, the Olympics matter deeply to the players. But so does the NHL season, and for a Devils team trying to find its footing, Hughes’ presence is invaluable.
Looking Ahead
The Devils' season isn't officially over, but the writing is on the wall. What matters now is how they approach the next two months. Do they chase a pipe dream or start laying the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable future?
There’s talent on this roster. There are young pieces to be excited about. But the path forward requires patience, smart decision-making, and a clear vision - not panic.
And for fans looking for a little extra insight, the Devils’ postgame YouTube show continues to provide live breakdowns and interviews after each game. With a few exciting guests lined up, it’s worth tuning in - especially during a season that’s offered more questions than answers.