Record: 32-14-1, 65 pts Conference rank: 3rd Division rank: 1st Top scorer: Zach Parise (20 goals, 27 assists, 47 pints) Top goalie: Martin Brodeur (29 wins, 2.14 GAA) Midseason Grade: A
Against all odds, the New Jersey Devils continue to rank among the league’s elite teams. Martin Brodeur continues to defy time and logic as he remains one of the best keepers in hockey, breaking records and the hearts of opposing teams’ fans along the way. Helping his march to the Hall of Fame is the league’s best defense - the Devils have given up only 105 goals so far.
Zach Parise is having another great season, and the young Niclas Bergfors is among the leaders in rookie scorers, with 13 goals and 27 points already. The Devils’ offense is nowhere near the top of the league, but the team’s +26 goal differential ranks 5th in the league. Veterans Jamie Langenbrunner, Brian Rolston and Patrik Elias are all still capable scorers, and give the Devils one of the better powerplays in the league.
Little needs to be spoken about the defensive abilities of the Devils. Even with Paul Martin injured for most of the year, the Devils still have a defensive corps that is solid from top to bottom. Colin White has developed into a veteran leader, and though he’s no Scott Stevens, he logs over 20 minutes of ice time a game, and provides a physical edge to a defense that is one of the most technically sound in the league.
With Brodeur between the pipes, the Devils have to be favored in just about any playoff matchup, especially if they can maintain their hold on the top of the Atlantic Division. Antoher Stanley Cup would just be icing on the cake for Brodeur’s incredible career.