The New Jersey Devils enter the 2026-27 NHL season at a crossroads, with both considerable potential and significant uncertainties shaping their outlook. Despite having the talent to contend for a playoff spot and challenge for the Metropolitan Division title, the team's prospects are closely tied to multiple factors both on and off the ice.
A central storyline involves the Hughes family, with Jack Hughes serving as New Jersey’s key player. However, his frequent injury history—missing at least 20 games in four of the past five seasons—has often hindered the team’s momentum. Adding to the intrigue, Jack’s brother Quinn Hughes, currently playing elsewhere, is reportedly interested in joining the Devils, which could alter the team's core dynamics if a trade materializes. There is also speculation about acquiring elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, though his arrival remains uncertain.
Last season, New Jersey began strongly but faltered following Jack Hughes’ injury, culminating in the dismissal of general manager Tom Fitzgerald. His replacement, Sunny Mehta, a former professional poker player and recent assistant GM with the Florida Panthers, has since reshaped the forward group by signing Anthony Mantha and acquiring Luke Evangelista and Evan Rodrigues. Mehta has largely left the defense unchanged, while the goaltender position remains a concern with Jake Allen expected to share duties with Nico Daws or potentially David Rittich.
This roster imbalance—marked by offensive firepower offset by defensive and goaltending questions—makes the Devils a challenging team to evaluate. Head coach Sheldon Keefe enters the season under pressure after two seasons that fell short of expectations, adding another layer of uncertainty to the team's outlook.
The betting market reflects this ambiguity. While the Devils are not viewed as a front-runner for the Stanley Cup, their upside exists if they can maintain player health and possibly improve through trades. The odds for a championship remain long at 30-to-1, a wager some may consider too risky given the injury concerns.
Among New Jersey players attracting attention in individual award markets is center Nico Hischier, listed at 12-to-1 odds to win the Selke Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s best two-way forward. Hischier has consistently been recognized as a top candidate, finishing in the top 10 of Selke voting in three of the last four seasons. His reputation and role on the team position him well to contend if he remains healthy. Meanwhile, Jack Hughes appears as a potential Hart Trophy candidate at 25-to-1, and Keefe is priced at 14-to-1 for the Jack Adams Award for coach of the year.
Overall, the Devils’ 2026-27 campaign hinges largely on maintaining player health and possibly making moves to bolster defense and goaltending. While offensive talent and individual recognition offer hope, New Jersey’s ultimate success will depend on overcoming key vulnerabilities.