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3 disappointing New Jersey Devils players who are bounce-back candidates for next season feat. Jack Hughes
The New Jersey Devils had an overall down year last season. Many analysts had picked the Devils to make a strong postseason showing following their second-round appearance the year before. However, inconsistency and injuries took their toll.
Following the dismissal of Lindy Ruff, new head coach Sheldon Keefe is expected to provide a welcome boost to the deep and talented lineup. As a result, the New Jersey Devils should be a force in the Metro Division.
In particular, three players stand out as bounce-back candidates as they recover from injury and benefit from having a new voice behind the bench.
3 disappointing New Jersey Devils players who are bounce-back candidates for 2024-25
#3: Timo Meier
Meier had a career-high 40 goals in 2022-23. He was a deadline acquisition from the San Jose Sharks that season, providing a spark during the Devils’ postseason run.
However, Meier regressed last season. While scoring 28 goals is not a low return, the total was below his usual career totals. Plus, Meier missed time due to injury, which affected his effectiveness.
With a healthy season and a boost from Keefe, Meier could easily return to this usual 30-goal form, helping the New Jersey Devils get back into the playoff conversation.
#2: Dougie Hamilton
Hamilton had a terrible season last year, playing only 20 games due to a torn pectoral muscle. Nevertheless, Hamilton registered 16 points in those 20 games.
It’s worth noting that Hamilton is still very much a top-pairing defenseman. As such, he should return to his usual strong form, benefitting from Keefe’s arrival.
It’s also worth mentioning that Hamilton has struggled to stay healthy over the several seasons. While he did play in all 82 games in 2022-23, he missed significant time the previous year. Still, Hamilton is extremely productive when healthy and it’s fair to bet on Hamilton making a strong comeback this upcoming season.
#1: Jack Hughes
Hughes narrowly missed the 100-point mark in 2022-23. His 99 points put him on the map as one of the league’s best young stars.
However, last season was a disaster as a season-ending shoulder injury cut his strong performance short. The former New Jersey Devils' first-overall pick had 27 goals and 74 points in 62 games before being shut down for the rest of the season.
This upcoming season, Hughes is likely to be back to full strength. If that’s the case, there’s no doubt he’ll have another strong campaign. A 100-point season may not be out of the question, especially if the team can gel around new coach Sheldon Keefe.
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