The New Jersey Devils have been on a solid run, going 7-3-0 in their last ten games, but the playoffs remain a distant dream. According to Moneypuck, their chances are a mere 1-in-625. Despite this, it's crucial for the Devils to maintain their momentum as they head into an important offseason.
Matthew Knies: A Potential Fit for the Devils?
The Devils have their eyes on Matthew Knies, a promising 23-year-old forward from the Toronto Maple Leafs. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 232 pounds, Knies is having a breakout season, on track for a career-high 71 points.
Insider Elliotte Friedman noted on Sportsnet’s ’32 Thoughts’ that the Devils showed “serious interest” in Knies before the trade deadline. Adding a player like Knies could provide the offensive boost the Devils need to become serious contenders.
While some debate how much of Knies’ success is due to playing alongside Auston Matthews, pairing him with Jack Hughes could be a game-changer. Keep an eye on this potential move in the offseason.
What's Next for GM Tom Fitzgerald?
The Devils' struggles have put general manager Tom Fitzgerald under the microscope. Despite a franchise-record 52 wins in the 2022-23 season, the team has only managed one playoff series win during his tenure.
ESPN’s Emily Kaplan suggested on “The Flying V Podcast” that the Devils might consider restructuring their management, possibly bringing in additional support for Fitzgerald. Kaplan mentioned, “Maybe they make a change there, but I know that Tom Fitzgerald’s plan is to continue to dangle some of these top defensemen that he has to get an impact forward.”
It’s a pivotal moment for the Devils’ front office.
Jack Hughes Shines in Rivalry Games
Jack Hughes has a knack for elevating his game when it matters most, and nowhere is this more evident than in the heated matchups against the New York Rangers. In his last five games against their rivals, Hughes has racked up an astonishing 15 points, including nine goals and six assists.
That’s an eye-popping pace of 148 goals and 246 points over a full season. As captain Nico Hischier put it, “That’s what good players do.
They shine when the light is brightest.”
As the season progresses, stay tuned for more updates and insights on the Devils and the broader NHL landscape.