Written By Neil Villapiano
After just eight games, the Devils sit at 5-2-1. The biggest key to their early success is the offense. New Jersey sits with the #1 power play in the NHL (42.4%) and averages the second most goals-per-game (4.13). A large part of that is coming from two of their top goal-scorers. Both also happen to be playing on the same line and are quickly becoming the most dynamic scoring duo the Devils have ever had. Those two are Jack Hughes and Tyler Toffoli.
When the Devils made the trade for Toffoli this past summer, the reasoning behind it was to add a true finisher for Hughes' playmaking ability. Through less than 10 games, that belief has become a reality. Hughes currently leads the league in points (18) and exactly half of those have involved Toffoli in either a goal or assist. Hughes has played with some talented players in the past, but nobody has been more efficient playing alongside him than Toffoli. This chemistry dates back to the first day of training camp when the pair were already drawing up ways they could set each other up.
It's moments like Toffoli's hat trick last week vs the Montreal Canadiens that are great examples of how well the two forwards fair with one another. On all three goals, Hughes got the primary assist. It just goes to show you that these two individuals know where to set each other up on any given play. If these guys can keep up this production, there is no telling what they can do.
While the Devils have had some phenomenal scorers in their history, I believe that this duo could become the most dangerous and dynamic duo that the organization has ever featured. There are still 74 games left and the postseason to go, but so far through 2023-24, the Hughes-Toffoli tandem has been nothing short of entertaining and exciting for this team.
Subscribe to the Devils State of Mind Podcast:
Follow the Devils State of Mind Podcast on Social Media:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/DevilsState
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devilsstateofmind/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DevilsStateOfMind/
Use Promo Code: DEVILSSTATEOFMIND on SeatGeek to get $20 off your first ticket purchase
Use Promo Code: "DEVILSSTATE" on Horns and Tail Napa to get 10% off your next purchase from the Official Wine Club of the New Jersey Devils
What an amazing start to the season! Hope they keep it up and go beyond.