As we, hopefully, get closer and closer to the start of the 2012-2013 NHL season, many writers, analysts and fans alike are breaking down teams chances this year, and why or why not they will do well. Today, I take a look at some of the biggest question marks for the New Jersey Devils entering the 2012-13 season.

Goaltending

I think this is one question mark that will stand all throughout the season. Martin Brodeur played well last season, especially in the playoffs, but he's a year older now and he has to slow down at some point. Will it be this year? If it is the Devils won't be in great shape as Johan Hedberg probably won't be suited for to starters role at age 39. Hedberg has started 36+ games in a season only once since the 2002-03 season, so it's safe to say he's better suited for a backup role.

Lost Offense

Perhaps the biggest question mark surrounding the Devils entering the upcoming season is: who will replace the offense left behind by Alexei Ponikarovsky, Zach Parise and potentially Petr Sykora? If Sykora leaves, that's 59 goals and over 130 points lost. Who will pick up the slack left behind? Adam Henrique, Travis Zajac, Jacob Josefson and potentially Mattias Tedenby will likely play large roles in doing so. If those guys don't produce more this season than last, the Devils will likely have a tough time getting back to the playoffs.

Patrik Elias

Everyone knew Elias was still a very good player, but I don't think many expected him to be a top-10 point producer while playing against most of the oppositions top lines like he did last year. He showed he still has lots left in the tank last season, but at age 36 is it reasonable to expect the same production from him this year? Probably not, which means someone else will need to pick up his slack if his production does drop a little.

What do you all think? What is the biggest question mark for the Devils entering the upcoming season? Leave your thoughts in the comment section!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow me on twitter @ToddCordell.

TheHockeyGuys.net

Email: [email protected]