The New Jersey Devils entered this season with an expectation to contend for a Stanley Cup. Last year, they were eliminated in the first round, due in part to missing Jack Hughes after he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. After a strong start, the Devils once again have to play without Hughes, who suffered a freak accident, leading to finger surgery, and he's out for about two months. Yet, they are still in a playoff position.
The Devils have had their struggles with replacing Martin Brodeur after his retirement. The team did make a big trade for Jacob Markstrom, but the results have been mixed, especially this season.