Devils Fans Unsure of Playoff Potential

The New Jersey Devils went out of their way this season, and, despite the injuries of numerous players, managed to earn enough points to secure a spot in the playoffs. As they take on their third playoff game this season, Devils fans seem to question just how good they truly will perform, especially against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Devils fan Freshman Eva Ocampo isn’t too optimistic. She said, “Despite them being my favorite team, I honestly don’t think we’re going to make it far in the playoffs, especially since we’re facing a solid team in just the first round. We’ve already lost the first two games, and the third one is so crucial. The Hurricanes are a pretty consistent team, and have a good D (defensive line), which means we need to have a good O (offensive line). Unfortunately, one of our best centers, Jack Hughes, is out for the rest of the year, and the lines have been kind of messed up since he’s been injured.”

Fans feel the chance of the Devils turning this season around sadly doesn’t seem to be very likely. Longtime fan Dean McGregor said, “I’ve been a Devils fan since they moved to New Jersey in 1982, and definitely overcoming injuries and the physicality of the other team will be the most challenging for them. Carolina is a pretty physical team, and honestly, I can’t see them making it past the first round."

NJ Devils Lead Writer Gabrielle Nordstrom for ONNJ Sports shared similar concerns: “I would like to see the Devils make it to the Eastern finals, but as a realistic hockey fan, I don’t see them going any further than the second round. Their lack of depth is going to be the most challenging for them as they continue to play in the playoffs. As shown in the first two games, they are relying on their top guys – if they want to be a winning team, they need four lines that can put the puck in the back of the net.”

“I think the Hurricanes will be the hardest team to play against. They are one of the most well rounded teams in the NHL, and are extremely hard to play against due to their size, speed, and playoff experience. Throughout the recent two games, the Hurricanes have already been able to show the cracks in the Devils' line up and have punished them for it,” Nordstrom added.

Ultimately, the Devils worked unbelievably hard to get to where they are, but fans remain unsure if they will be able to pull through, and win their fourth Stanley Cup. Although the chances are exceedingly slim, there is still a possibility and some hope that many fans haven’t found quite yet.