3 New Jersey Devils Who Impressed This Season

The New Jersey Devils had an unforgettable season in 2022-23, breaking several franchise records. Led by a young core and supported by several key additions, the team lived up to and exceeded expectations.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at three players who stood out this season and contributed to the Devils' success:

Jack Hughes

Jack Huges silenced all the critics and "bust" comments for good with his remarkable performance this season. The 21-year-old center had a breakout season, setting a new franchise record for most points in a single season with 99, previously held by Patrik Elias. In addition to setting the franchise record for most points in a single season, Hughes finished the season with 36 goals and 63 assists. He was a consistent offensive threat for the Devils, and his playmaking abilities and speed were on full display all season.

Jack Hughes scores his first career playoff goal on a penalty shot! 🎯 pic.twitter.com/IxpcNuFzDs
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 19, 2023

Dougie Hamilton

After signing a huge contract with New Jersey in 2021, Dougie Hamilton disappointed, putting up just nine goals and 30 points with a brutal -19 plus/minus rating last season. He truly redeemed himself this year, however, as the 29-year-old played in all 82 games and set a career-high in points with 74. He was a force on both ends of the ice, providing offensive firepower and solidifying the team's defense. More specifically, Hamilton recorded 22 goals, 52 assists, and a shining 23 plus/minus rating.

I scored! pic.twitter.com/3awz20KYYm
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) April 14, 2023

Dawson Mercer

The Devils had high hopes for Dawson Mercer entering this season and he did not disappoint. In his rookie season in 2021-22, Mercer recorded a very solid 17 goals and 42 points while playing all 82 games. The only blemish perhaps was his -25 plus/minus rating. This season, the 21-year-old continued to impress, piling up 27 goals and 56 points while again playing all 82 games. Oh, and he completely flipped his plus/minus, registering a very nice +22 rating. The 20-year-old forward was drafted 18th overall by New Jersey in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft and his future certainly looks bright.