
The New Jersey Devils have earned a 24-20-3 record and 51 points through 47 games this season. They are in the fifth wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. A season that began as mediocre is quickly spiraling as they limped into the NHL All-Star Break with a 3-6-1 record in their last 10.
That being said, let's take a look at the 2023-24 mid-season award winners.
ART ROSS: Jesper Bratt
Entering the All-Star Break, Bratt leads his team with 50 points in 47 games. Having injuries affects so many key players like Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, Bratt is currently the runaway favorite in this category.
ROCKET RICHARD: Tyler Toffoli
The 31-year-old has net two hat tricks this season and scored a team-leading 21 goals. General manager Tom Fitzgerald acquired Toffoli because he is a proven goal scorer, and to win hockey games, you need to score goals. So far, he has come as advertised.
HART: Jack Hughes
Unfortunately, injuries derailed the 22-year-old's season. He would have easily been in the Hart Trophy conversation if he had remained healthy. Despite only appearing in 32 games, he has tallied 45 points, which simply can not be ignored.
NORRIS: Colin Miller
The Devils defense has struggled all season long. John Marino has been inconsistent, Hamilton, Jonas Siegenthaler, and Brendan Smith have been sidelined with injuries, and the rookies have and will continue to make rookie mistakes. By default, Colin Miller has brought the most stability to the blue line.
VEZINA: ...
To quote Kourtney Kardashian, "Huh, this is tough." Every goaltender that has suited up for the Devils has struggled this season. After 47 games, I can confidently say there is no winner in this category.
SELKE: Nico Hischier
The runner-up for the Selke Trophy last season, Hischier continues to be a responsible two-way player for his club. His offensive numbers might have dipped this season, but make no mistake he is the best defensive forward on the team.
CALDER: Luke Hughes
Offensively, Luke Hughes has come as advertised. He runs the team's first power-play unit and has 26 points, the fifth-most among league rookies.
MASTERTON: Curtis Lazar
In early January, Curtis Lazar missed time with a lower-body injury. When he returned to practice, he shared in an interview that he was "probably going to have this a majority of the season." That has not stopped the veteran from sacrificing his body and blocking shots night after night. He has been a true warrior for the Devils. (from 'Devils forward returns to practice after lower-body injury,' NJ.com, 01/02/24)
LADY BYNG: Jesper Bratt
Not only is Bratt leading the Devils with 50 points, but he only has eight minutes in penalties this season.