Coming off of their worst season since the 1980s, nobody expected the New Jersey Devils to be anything. Even after winning the 2017 NHL Draft Lottery and earning the right to select the Swiss center Nico Hischier number one overall, the expectations were low. It was apparent early on. However, that the 17-18 team could keep up their early season success and be a playoff team for the first time since 2012, when they were eliminated in six games in the Stanley Cup Final by the Los Angeles Kings.
Everyone knows that success brings expectations. Even though a slow offseason for Ray Shero and the New Jersey Devils leaves them with a mediocre defense core, most expect them to compete for the playoffs once again.