Dougie Hamilton’s return may make the Devil far in the playoffs – Hockey Writer – New Jersey Devils

The New Jersey Devils made the playoffs for the first time in two years. After the Philadelphia Flyers beat the New York Rangers, the team won the playoffs Wednesday night. Unfortunately, the Pittsburgh Penguins came down from their parade and lost to them 4-2 on Friday night. However, with Dougie Hamilton’s return, morale returned to its highest level all-time.

It seems Hamilton will join the team during the playoffs, with head coach Sheldon Keefe still optimistic, who will offer it in the first round. Having a star defender during the playoffs can give the Devil a huge advantage, as Hamilton is known for his senior experience and offensive abilities.

Hamilton’s road to recovery

Last season, Hamilton played only 20 games, and was then torn by his chest muscles and was helpless. Unfortunately, he suffered a similar fate this season. Hamilton suffered a low body injury at the end of the season against the Dallas Stars last month and missed the rest of the regular season.

When asked about his return schedule, general manager Tom Fitzgerald initially said it would be offered as early as the second round of the playoffs. But his schedule was delayed and Hamilton is expected to play against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round.

Hamilton skated alone last Thursday, and on Saturday he joined the practice as a formal participant. Before his game against the New York Islanders, Keefe announced that Hamilton would not play, but he did participate in the warm-up. His progress should give Devils fans hope for the playoffs, especially since his return seems to be on the horizon.

Earlier this week, Hamilton spoke in the media about the difficulties of not being a member of the team for such a long time: “You have to be patient and hard, work hard every day,” Hamilton said.

The difference is through

Hamilton remains the Devil’s best offensive defender. He scored nine goals and 31 assists before the injury, still ranked second among all the Devils’ defenders. At 6-foot-6 and weighing 230 pounds, he offers a significant advantage that allows him to block shots and pierce the puck from difficult situations.

Not only did Hamilton ranked 96th percentile in goals, he was also in the 99th percentile hit rate to kill offensive zone time. And he is well known for his powerful slap. According to NHL Edge, most defenders have an average record of 20.74 goals between 80 and 90 miles an hour. Hamilton, on the other hand, has fired 83.

Related: The Devil’s Recent Playoff Show

Getting Hamilton back on the bench could also have a huge impact on the devil’s power exertion. This season, he registered five goals and 10 assists on “Human Advantage”, with the quarterback being their highest power play. Hamilton’s percentage goal is 92.31 goals (GF%), and even recorded a career-high 122 senior scoring chances on the human edge. Even if Luke Hughes stepped up the game in his absence, having two defenders in the playoffs could make the Devil’s power deadly.

Hamilton’s influence

Hamilton’s role in the devil cannot be underestimated. The production of his views and the consistency of uniform strength make him an irreplaceable player. Similarly, his offensive consciousness, strength and discipline can increase the chances of the devil moving forward.

Despite missing a while, Hamilton’s influence is what it feels like throughout the season. His main defensive partner is Brenden Dillon. The two averaged 3.54 goals and 69.06 shots every 60 minutes. Statistically speaking, Dillon made great progress due to his cooperation with Hamilton. His percentage target (GF%) grew by 30.96%, while Dillon’s high range target (HDGF%) rose by 35.58%.

Hamilton’s retreat means the Devil’s blue line will tilt the scales to support experienced defenders. People like Johnathan Kovacevic and Brett Pesce will also add depth and experience. With Hughes like a grey veteran, the Devil has a chance to execute a defensive revival. More importantly, they will set an example for Seamus Casey and Simon Nemec, neither of them appearing.

The Devil’s Playoffs Hope to Go Forward

Entering the playoffs, the Devils have a unique combination of defensive players that can make them go further. Pesce and Dillon provide consistency, while Hamilton has an offensive advantage. The team had some difficulties at the end of the regular season, but they needed to unite to make the playoffs.

The Stanley Cup playoffs will begin on April 19, and the Devils will face the Hurricanes in Round 1. Do you think New Jersey needs to keep moving? Or will Carolina cause them to fail early again?