New Jersey Devils’ Dominance: Advanced Stats Reveal NHL Contender
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The New Jersey Devils’ surprising surge to the top of the NHL standings isn’t just luck; it’s a testament to their impressive advanced statistics and a roster conversion. After a playoff-less season last year, the Devils are making a powerful statement, leaving many wondering if their success is sustainable.
This offseason saw important changes, including the acquisition of goalie Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames and the hiring of coach Sheldon Keefe. However, the core of returning players is proving instrumental in their success, showcasing remarkable performance in key advanced metrics.
Last season’s playoff miss, despite a respectable seventh-place ranking in shot attempts percentage at 5-on-5 (51.9%), was largely attributed to injuries to key players like defenseman Dougie hamilton (limited to 20 games) and forward Jack Hughes (62 games), coupled with goaltending inconsistencies (.886 save percentage, tied for third-worst in the NHL). This year, while their shot attempt percentage remains similar (51.6%, tied for ninth), the goaltending tandem of Markstrom and Jake Allen has significantly improved, boasting an .899 team save percentage (tied for eighth in the NHL), providing a level of consistency absent last season.
The Devils’ success isn’t just about goaltending; their advanced metrics across the board are exceptional. They’ve demonstrated an ability to dominate opponents and quickly recover from setbacks. Their resilience is evident in their record: only one instance of consecutive regulation losses (October 22-24) all season. Currently,they trail only the Washington Capitals in wins (19 out of 32 games) and points (41) in the Eastern Conference,boasting a strong points percentage of .641 (seventh in the NHL).
NHL EDGE stats highlight the Devils’ dominance in high-danger shots on goal (leading the league with 282) and their near-top ranking in high-danger goals (51, just one shy of the league leaders).Their power play is also a force to be reckoned with, boasting a league-leading 30.9% success rate, surpassing even the Winnipeg Jets. Their offensive zone time percentage on the power play (61.1%, sixth in the league) further underscores their offensive prowess.
The team’s success is built on strong forward pairings. The lines centered by Jack Hughes (with Jesper Bratt on the wing) and Nico Hischier (with Timo Meier on the wing) are key drivers of their offensive output. Bratt and Hughes are consistently among the NHL’s top point scorers, with bratt particularly impressive, ranking 24th in the NHL in points over the past four seasons (268 points in 272 games since 2021-22).
Bratt’s consistent performance is backed by strong underlying metrics, solidifying his position as one of the league’s most well-rounded and elite players. The Devils’ success story is a compelling blend of strategic acquisitions, improved goaltending, and the exceptional performance of their core players, all supported by impressive advanced statistics.
New Jersey Devils’ Stellar EDGE Stats Signal Strong Playoff Contention
The New Jersey Devils are making a statement this season, not just in the standings, but in the advanced analytics. Their impressive performance in NHL EDGE stats paints a picture of a team poised for a deep playoff run,exceeding expectations in speed,scoring,and defensive prowess.
Forward jesper Bratt is a prime example of the Devils’ exceptional performance. He ranks in the 90th percentile or higher among forwards in several key categories, including speed bursts over 20 mph (69; 92nd percentile), 22+ mph speed bursts (nine; 97th percentile), mid-range shots on goal (34; 96th percentile), mid-range goals (seven; 98th percentile), total skating distance (97.82 miles; 96th percentile), top shot speed (91.32 mph; 90th percentile), and offensive zone time percentage on the power play (64.0 percent; 91st percentile).
The Devils’ offensive firepower extends beyond Bratt. They boast three forwards among the NHL’s top 10 in high-danger shots on goal: stefan Noesen (third with 45), Nico Hischier (fifth with 42), and Timo Meier (tenth with 37). Jack Hughes further solidifies their offensive dominance, ranking second in the NHL in total skating distance (118.19 miles, trailing only Nathan MacKinnon’s 118.80 miles) and in the 97th percentile in max skating speed (23.33 mph). Hischier, Noesen, and Jack Hughes also shine in high-danger goals, with Hischier leading at nine (97th percentile) and noesen and Jack Hughes each tallying eight (94th percentile). jack Hughes also edges out Bratt in mid-range shots on goal (36; 98th percentile).
The Devils’ defensive strength is equally impressive. Goaltender Vitek Vanecek faces a significant number of long-range shots, showcasing the team’s ability to stifle opponents’ offensive attacks. The defensive pairing of Dougie Hamilton and Luke Hughes, Jack’s younger brother, further solidifies this defensive dominance. Hamilton excels in 80-90 mph shots (48; 99th percentile) and ranks among the top 10 defensemen in mid-range shots on goal (22; fifth), mid-range goals (three; tied for ninth), long-range shots on goal (48; tied for fourth), and offensive zone time percentage (46.4 percent; tied for ninth). Luke Hughes demonstrates exceptional speed, ranking fourth in the NHL in top skating speed (23.58 mph),leading all defensemen in 22+ mph speed bursts (six),and ranking in the 92nd percentile at his position in high-danger shots on goal (five).
While other Metropolitan Division powerhouses like the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers have experienced early-season roster inconsistencies, the Devils have remained remarkably healthy and consistently strong across various metrics. Their strong performance builds upon their playoff success two seasons ago, when they defeated the Rangers in a playoff round. With their current trajectory, a deeper playoff run in 2025 seems increasingly likely.
For a more detailed look at the Devils’ impressive EDGE stats,visit NHL EDGE stats for Devils.
New Jersey Devils’ Stellar EDGE Stats Signal Strong Playoff Contention
The New Jersey Devils have stormed onto the NHL scene this season, leaving many pleasantly surprised by their dominant performance. Their exciting brand of hockey goes beyond customary stats, with advanced metrics painting a picture of a well-rounded and dangerous team poised for a deep playoff run. To get a better understanding of what’s driving the devils’ success, we spoke with hockey analyst Emily Kaplan about the meaning of their remarkable EDGE stats.
Advanced Stats: More Than Just Hype
Senior Editor: Emily, the Devils are generating a lot of buzz, and their EDGE stats seem to be backing up the hype. Can you explain why these stats are so significant in understanding a team’s true potential?
Emily Kaplan: Absolutely. EDGE stats go beyond the basic box score and dive deeper into the nuances of the game. They measure things like shot quality,puck possession,and individual player performance in a way that traditional stats frequently enough miss.
For example, the Devils lead the league in high-danger shots on goal, which indicates they’re consistently creating scoring chances from high-percentage areas. That’s a much stronger indicator of future success than simply looking at total shots.
Offensive Prowess and a Well-Balanced Attack
Senior Editor: The Devils’ offense is undoubtedly potent, but it’s not just about star players like Jack Hughes. what are some of the other factors contributing to their offensive success, as evidenced by EDGE data?
Emily Kaplan: You’re right, it’s a true team effort. Jesper Bratt is having a phenomenal season, ranking in the 90th percentile or higher in several key categories. He’s a speedster who can generate offense from anywhere on the ice.
But what’s really impressive is their depth scoring. Players like Nico Hischier and Timo Meier are consistently finding the back of the net, and their line combinations are clicking.
The Devils’ power play is also a force to be reckoned with. They’re converting at a league-leading rate, and their offensive zone time percentage on the power play is also top-notch.
Think of it like this: they have multiple weapons that can hurt you.
Defensive Solidity and Goaltending
Senior Editor: While offense gets a lot of attention, a strong defense is crucial in the playoffs. How does New Jersey fare defensively,according to the EDGE data?
Emily Kaplan: They’re a well-rounded team. The Devils have a solid defensive pairing in Dougie hamilton and Luke Hughes, who are both excellent skaters with a knack for shutting down opponents. Hamilton particularly excels at keeping shots to the outside and preventing high-danger chances.
And then there’s goaltender Vitek vanecek. He’s facing a lot of shots, which isn’t always a good sign, but it also means the Devils are doing a good job of limiting high-quality scoring chances. He’s been solid in net, providing crucial stability for the team.
Looking Ahead: Playoffs and Beyond
Senior Editor: With such strong performance across the board, what are your expectations for the Devils moving forward?
Emily Kaplan: They’re definitely a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. This team is built for playoff success. They’ve got the offense, the defense, and the goaltending to compete with anyone. The experience they gained from last year’s playoff run against the Rangers is invaluable too.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Devils make a deep run this year. They’re a team on the rise, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.
