http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJWFZLPRa-o&hl=en&fs=1&
Its that time again…..
I assume this one personally because no one is tougher on the Devils than I am.
2008/09 Recap-
Record: 46-30-6, 98 pts.
Playoffs: Lost to CAR in ECQF (4-3)
Key Additions: Yann Danis (yes I know)
Key Subtractions: John Madden, Brian Gionta, Scott Clemmensen
X-Factor: Johnny Oduya
Could be the best defenseman on this team by the end of the season. Plays more steady than Paul Martin.
Breakout player: David Clarkson
This is Clarkson’s year and if he performs like he has so far in the preseason….he will get 25+ goals this year. Also the Patrik Elias (groin) injury helps immensely.
Prospect to watch: Matt Corrente
Not Bergfors like some would think…I think Corrente is more of a Lemaire guy and will get a shot to show his stuff during the season.
On the hot seat: Jacques Lemaire
This is the one coach with the most pressure not because of success but the fear of failure and scoreboard watching. It almost cost the Devils the other night. That mentality of relaxing has to stop especially with Martin Brodeur in net.
Fantasy Corner-
Buy: Zach Parise
Sell: Brian Rolston
Sleeper: Niklas Bergfors
Bold Prediction: The New Jersey Devils will finish with around 100 points this year with Zach Parise scoring 50 goals.
Team Overview: New Jersey took a lot of slings and arrows from the media for not resigning John Madden, Brian Gionta, or Scott Clemmensen. The reality is the team got younger even with the signing of Shanny. The Devils will rely on their youth more than previous years and really that youth is the future and the key to this team. Also with Yann Danis in net, Marty Brodeur should start around 70 times again. That is the key to this team’s success and Brent Sutter could not coach last year when it counted. Jacques Lemaire is better in March, April, and beyond. That is also essential.
The other thing will be what will the Devils do at the trade deadline. There is the cap space and the belief that this team will be able to swing a deal for a player while other teams are worried about 2010-11. Do not be surprised if that kind of trade vaults the Devils up the standings a bit in a tight Eastern Conference.
Current 09/10 Prediction-
3rd in the Atlantic Division
