New Jersey Devils Face Uncertain Future in 2026-27 Season
Despite potential additions and offensive talent, the Devils' defense and goaltending remain significant question marks.
The New Jersey Devils stand at a crossroads as they approach the 2026-27 NHL season, facing a complex mix of potential and uncertainty. While the team possesses considerable offensive firepower and could contend for the Metropolitan Division title, external factors and internal question marks loom large.
Rumors swirl around the potential acquisition of defenseman Quinn Hughes, who has expressed interest in joining his brothers, Jack and Luke, in New Jersey. Additionally, the team has been linked to elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. Whether either player, or neither, will end up in Newark remains unknown.
The Devils' betting odds reflect this ambiguity. They are listed at 30/1 for the Stanley Cup, 17/1 for the Eastern Conference, and +750 to win the Metropolitan Division. Oddsmakers have set their over/under at 95.5 points, with odds of -135 for them to make the playoffs.
Last season, the Devils started strong but faltered after an injury to star forward Jack Hughes. This slump led to the dismissal of general manager Tom Fitzgerald, who was replaced by Sunny Mehta. Mehta, a former professional poker player and assistant GM with the Florida Panthers, has bolstered the forward group by signing Anthony Mantha and acquiring Luke Evangelista and Evan Rodrigues. However, the blueline remains largely unchanged, and the goaltending situation relies on Jake Allen, Nico Daws, or David Rittich.
The team's roster composition gives it an unbalanced feel, with a strong offense contrasted by significant question marks on defense and in goal. The coaching staff, under Sheldon Keefe, also faces scrutiny after two seasons that did not meet expectations.
Adding to the uncertainty is the health history of Jack Hughes, who has missed at least 20 games in four of the last five seasons. His availability is crucial to the team's success.
Best Bet: Nico Hischier for Selke Trophy
Despite the overall uncertainty, betting markets offer value on individual player awards. Nico Hischier is available at 12/1 odds to win the Selke Trophy, awarded to the NHL's best two-way forward. Hischier has consistently been a top contender, finishing in the top 10 of voting in three of the last four seasons.
While the Devils' team outlook is complex, Hischier's consistent performance and reputation position him as a strong candidate for the Selke Trophy, making him the best bet for those looking for value within the New Jersey Devils' 2026-27 season outlook.