3 Bold New Jersey Devils Predictions

Alexander Holtz

Not only is Holtz a phenomenal sniper, but he also can be a playmaker when he needs to be. Don’t be surprised that when Holtz does get called up by Tom Fitzgerald that Holtz not only begins in the top 9 forward slottings but plays on the power play. Coach Mark Recchi will play a vital role in his progression on the power play. The Devils struggled mightily for finishers last season. Holtz is a young man who will be very determined. His shot is absolutely lethally accurate that it reminds me of Ilya Kovalchuk’s release when firing on goal.

The New Jersey Devils might not even have to make many moves on offense with Holtz being an ideal internal option. Giving General Manager Tom Fitzgerald’s option of moving other players that won’t be able to crack the lineup out in deals in time for the February deadline. If that is the case and everything falls in place the Devils are in very good shape.

Tomas Tatar

The Slovak winger has proven to be capable who can be a 49 point average per season winger throughout his NHL career. Tomas playing alongside Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier on the top 2 forward lines will give him two fast playmaking dual-threat centers.

Tatar scored with a minimal of 10 goals while he’s averaged over 23 goals per season. He has over 222 points in his career and has an all-time high of 29 goals. Tomas Tatar is poised to have a veteran campaign on a very young but more experienced New Jersey Devils core group.

Playing with Yegor Sharangovich, Jesper Bratt, and even fellow countryman Marian Studenic would help give them advice throughout the season. Tatar’s influence can help make the coaching staff’s job easier while he takes on a veteran leadership role. Tatar should be in the ballpark of 27 goals and 55 points with the cast of players he has been given to work with.

Dougie Hamilton

Hamilton is poised to join a young and upcoming group adding a ton of experience to a growing roster and bolstering the defense. He brings that Norris Trophy potential style of hockey due to the fact he’s so gifted offensively and defensively.

The Devils power play will go from the bottom to above NHL average. Don’t be surprised to see Dougie Hamilton become a candidate to win the Norris Trophy. His desire to play the game and is such a talented and great defenseman over his tenure will serve him well.

Don’t be surprised that Hamilton will be part of the big performance of key players both on the blue line and on the forward groups. Fitzgerald wants his defense to move the puck out fast and clean to create more windows of opportunity to score and win games. Hamilton will help the Devils become a Top 8 team in the east that gets them into the playoffs and helps Fitzgerald get another piece to help the team out.

Hischier is the captain, and Hughes deserves an alternate captain letter but so does Dougie who has been around a while and has played on very great playoff teams in recent pasts.

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