Équipe: 2023-24 Devils du New Jersey

Date de création initiale: 18 déc. 2023

Publié: 18 déc. 2023

Mode - plafond salarial: Basique

- I think the worst part about Lindy Ruff as HC is the constant changing of lines. Stop splitting up Hughes and Bratt; together they are probably the best skating duo in the entire NHL. He is reluctant to move Toffoli off the top line though despite going pointless in 7 of his last 10 games. I think Holtz has played consistently well and deserves a shot in the top 6.

- In terms of the 2nd line, I think Palat and Hischier have been good together this year. I think Meier has played his best next to Nico despite not showing up on the scoresheet yet. Ruff cannot keep putting Meier on the 3rd line; it seems as though Lindy is clueless in how or where to play him. Ruff has to allow Meier to play his game and stop holding him back for the sake of Lindy's system. Ruff has shown time and time again that when teams lock down the neutral zone, he makes no effort to adjust his teams style of play.

- For some reason, Ruff has had Mercer at center and Haula at LW the last few games. Haula always plays better down the middle and has always been very good in the faceoff circle. Mercer stinks in the faceoff circle and always elevates his play on the wing. I like how Toffoli and Mercer complement each other so I'd reunite them on the 3rd line.

- For the fourth line, I think you can make the argument that the Devils have two of the better fourth liners in the league with McLeod and Lazar. Both guys have had great years and have given us some depth scoring while providing a solid defensive game

- The main thing to take away is that Hughes-Bratt and Hischier-Meier are duos that shouldn't ever be split