The New Jersey Devils had one of the league’s strongest power play zone time percentages in 2024–25. Six different players scored at least five power-play goals, and the team tied for seventh overall in offensive zone time percentage with an average of 59.8%.
Their ability to control the puck translated into results: New Jersey ranked third in the NHL on the power play, setting a new single-season franchise record.
What does offensive zone time percentage mean? It measures the amount of time a team spends in the offensive zone while on the power play, when the puck is under control, the clock is running, and chances are being generated.
Despite excelling in this area, the Devils’ 5-on-5 scoring left much to be desired. They finished 20th in goals scored with 240, while ranking fifth in goals against with 220. Their overall record of 42-33-7 was good enough for third place in the Metropolitan Division, but they managed just one playoff win before falling to the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Disconnect Between Puck Possession and Goals
The Devils averaged 28.1 shots per game, firing about 2,304 shots over the course of the season. Only 240 found the back of the net, a shooting percentage that highlights the team’s biggest issue - converting possession into production.
This imbalance suggests that while the Devils controlled the flow of play and generated chances, something was missing in finishing and execution.
Why It Still Matters
Yes, it matters. Sustained offensive zone time is a strong indicator of future success. The Devils already have elite talent driving their puck control, as reflected in individual power play zone time numbers:
- Nico Hischier: 63.5% (93rd percentile)
- Jesper Bratt: 63.2% (91st percentile)
- Stefan Noesen: 63.1% (90th percentile)
- Jack Hughes: 62.8% (89th percentile)
- Dougie Hamilton: 62.7% (95th percentile; tied for 5th among defensemen)
If New Jersey can solve its finishing issues and turn more of that possession into goals, they won’t just be playoff contenders; they’ll be a serious threat for a deep postseason run.