19-8-1.
A .696 points percentage, topped by none in the conference and only Colorado and Dallas in the entire league.
That is who the Devils are*.
*With Jack Hughes healthy and playing with no brace, tape, additional protection, on his hand.
Out of the gates it was an Eastern Conference best record of 12-4-1 for New Jersey. Then the wine glass happened. Whether it was Bordeaux that brutalized the Devils or Cabernet that capsized 25-26' is unknown, however one thing is known. Healthy, free of any hand brace/restraint/additional gloves or tape, Jack Hughes is the driver of a Devils ship that is headed in the right direction.
Post Olympic break(the first time since the injury that Hughes has nothing extra on his hand in NHL action) the Devils have a 7-4 record. This brings their totals with the full powered Golden Boy to the aforementioned 19-8-1record. Tonight, in Washington New Jersey will look to win their 8th contest in their last ten. Although playoffs are still extremely unlikely, is their hope once again in NJ?
With the storm seemingly passed, and waters calmed, reinforcements will need to be brought in to help repair a lacking crew. With that said the ship moves on, battle tested and with rejuvenated aspirations. In the coming months at least one(Hamilton), if not more(Fitz, Keefe?) will walk the plank, but alas land is in back in sight...
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