 The New Jersey Devils have possessed a very consistent formula for success for the past fifteen years – great defense added to great goaltending equals a great team. Backed by the all-time great performances of future hall of fame net-minder Martin Brodeur, and the strong organizational leadership of Lou Lamoriello, the Devils have consistently been one of the best teams in hockey, and always in the conversation when discussing potential Stanley Cup contenders. New Jersey has two superstars, captain Patrick Elias and Zach Parise, currently highlighting their offense. After the duo combined for 76 goals last year, they're one of the best one-two punches in the NHL. Behind them there is still enough talent on hand for three strong lines, and Jamie Langenbrunner, Travis Zajac, Dainus Zubrus and Brian Rolston should produce plenty of points as well. While the Devils are very talented up front, do not be surprised if their production steps back a little in new coach Jacques Lemaire's controlled defensive system. Given the new system, defensively, the Devils are very solid, with Paul Martin as the power play leader and David Oduya being extremely underrated. Additionally, New Jersey's other defenders are extremely strong; Colin White, Mike Mottau, and Bryce Salvador should all thrive under Lemaire. Keep an eye on newly acquired defenseman Corey Murphy as well, as he exhibited some offensive talent in limited playing time last season. Realistically, and to no ones surprise, the real star of the New Jersey Devils is Martin Brodeur. After his elbow injury last season, some may have begun to question his ability to carry the Devils with his normal 65 or more games of solid production. Possibly even worse in Brodeur's eyes is the feeling that Roberto Luongo has leapfrogged him on Team Canada's pecking order at the Olympics. Expect the intense Brodeur to come back with a vengeance, return to his typically elite standards, and prove all of the naysayers wrong. The Devils may end up being the most predictable team in the NHL this year, emphasizing defense and suffocating opponents' rushes through the neutral zone. This will cause turnovers, and in turn will result in a majority of the team's goals. Meanwhile, Brodeur will once again be a rock in goal, winning many low scoring games by 2-1 or 2-0 margins. As always, the New Jersey Devils are prime contenders for the Stanley Cup. Their style of play translates very well into the postseason and it wouldn't be a shock whatsoever if they emerged as champions. Why not be there to see the Devils in action at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey? Get your New Jersey Devils tickets now to see defensive hockey at its best with the 2009-2010 New jersey Devils.
|
