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Perhaps the area the Devils figure to improve on the most from last season (shootouts aside) is 5 vs 5 goal scoring.
Last year the Devils offense was woeful in any situation that didn't involve a power play for them, and they were completely inept of scoring at full strength.
This, in large part, led to them failing to make the playoffs, despite outshooting and out possessing even the best of opponents on a regular basis.
With Mike Cammalleri,
the NHL's 7th most efficient 5 vs 5 goal scorer in 2013-14, and
Martin Havlat joining the ranks, as well as some young offensive defensemen becoming regulars in the lineup, their offense becomes much more potent.
That's certainly good news for Cory Schneider, who didn't get much - or anything - in the way of goal support last season.
Despite posting a .921 save percentage, which was well above league average, and a 1.97 goals against average, Schneider was able to win just 16 games in 45 appearances (16-15-12).
Shootout woes certainly factored in, but that record was a product of no goal support more than anything else. Of the 25 goaltenders who started at least 41 games last season, Schneider got the least goal support of them all.
For every 60 minutes of 5 vs 5 time with Schneider between the pipes, the Devils managed to score just 1.5 goals. Ryan Miller (1.6), Eddie Lack (1.9) and Jonathan Quick (1.9) were the only other goaltenders who had less than two goals of support per 60 of full strength time.
With the additions the Devils made and a little puck luck that number should increase quite a bit next season. If it does, the Devils will have a good chance of qualifying for a playoff spot.
Devils posts
Devils CHL prospect data
On Travis Zajac and Mike Cammalleri
Pete Harrold is a more than adequate No. 7
Data suggests Schneider will be top-tier goaltender over next few seasons
How much is Eric Gelinas worth?
Jackets posts
James Wisniewski among NHL's elite PP defensemen
On Ryan Murray and James Wisniewski
Contract talks between Blue Jackets, Johansen progressing
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