When it came to expectation for the three metropolitan area teams, the New York Rangers had the lowest. The Islanders were coming off an excellent season under Barry Trotz and the Devils had the best off-season by acquiring P.K. Subban, Jack Hughes, Wayne Simmonds and Nikia Gusev. So far, the Islanders are following the script, but the Rangers and Devils have flipped theirs.
The Devils have been on of the more disappointing teams this season, mired in last place with a record of 9-11-4. Their point total is third fewest in the NHL and visions of another draft lottery are beginning to haunt Ranger fans.