No matter what happens next, the 2017-18 regular season was a total success for the New Jersey Devils. Many, including myself, thought the Devils would be in the basement of the Metropolitan Division after last season. Now, the Devils are preparing for a first round matchup in the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Call it an over-achievement. Call it a function of the stars aligning in the right way for the team. Call it a big step forward as the Devils are building their way back to being a contender. Call it what you will.