An early post-free agency projection has the New Jersey Devils winning the Metropolitan Division. How much merit can we place on these projections?
The New Jersey Devils haven't won a division title since 2010, when they were members of the Atlantic Division.
They had 103 points that season and have only reached triple digits twice since 2012 and 2023.
Despite securing a franchise record with a 52-22-8 mark and 112 points in 2023, the Carolina Hurricanes finished atop the Metropolitan Division.
Last season, the Hurricanes maintained their spot near the division's top, while the Devils (38-39-5) plummeted to seventh, only ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets.
However, with a busy offseason, which includes the acquisitions of Jacob Markstrom, Brett Pesce, and Tomas Tatar, it seems the Devils are projected to be the top team in the division.
According to JFresh's first projected standings after five days of free agency, New Jersey is on pace for a 23-point improvement, vaulting to the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
JFresh works for EPRinkside, part of EliteProspects, one of the internet's most frequented sites for prospect news and statistics from professional hockey leagues worldwide.
His social media accounts feature hundreds of analytical player cards, compiled after a player is dealt away or signs with a new club.
The latest card for the Devils featured Tatar:
Although these projections are one of the first ones to make their rounds online, how do you, Devils fans, feel about these projections?
Does New Jersey have a shot at winning the Metropolitan Division after their recent upgrades, or did their opponents improve as well, making it an exciting race for the top spot in 2024-25?
Let us know your thoughts.