For the first time in two years, the New Jersey Devils are headed to the playoffs. The team clinched a postseason slot on Wednesday night, after the Philadelphia Flyers defeated the New York Rangers. Unfortunately, the Pittsburgh Penguins rained on their parade, handing them a 4-2 loss on Friday night. However, morale is back at an all-time high, with the return of Dougie Hamilton on the horizon.
It appears that Hamilton will join the team during the playoffs, and head coach Sheldon Keefe remains optimistic that he will be available during the first round. Having their star defenseman during the postseason could give the Devils a massive advantage since Hamilton is known for his veteran experience and offensive abilities.
Hamilton’s Road to Recovery
Last season, Hamilton played just 20 games before being sidelined with a torn pectoral muscle. Unfortunately, he suffered a similar fate this season. Hamilton sustained a season-ending lower-body injury last month against the Dallas Stars, missing the rest of the regular season yet again.
When asked for a timeline on his return, general manager Tom Fitzgerald initially said he would be available during the second round of the playoffs at the earliest. But his schedule has been pushed up, and Hamilton is expected to play in Round 1 against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Last Thursday, Hamilton skated on his own, and on Saturday, he joined practice as a full participant. Ahead of their game against the New York Islanders, Keefe announced that Hamilton would not play, but he did participate in warmups. His progress should leave Devils’ fans hopeful for the postseason, especially since his return seems imminent.
Earlier this week, Hamilton spoke to the media about how difficult it was not being a part of the team for so long: “You have to be patient and work as hard as you can and take it day by day,” said Hamilton.
A Difference Maker Through and Through
Hamilton remains the Devils’ best offensive defenseman. Before his injury, he notched nine goals and 31 assists and still ranks second in points among all Devils’ defensemen. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 230 pounds, his size provides a significant advantage, allowing him to block shots and muscle the puck out of difficult situations.
Not only does Hamilton rank in the 96th percentile in shots on goal, but he’s also in the 99th percentile for penalty kill offensive zone time. And he’s widely known for his powerful slapshots. According to NHL EDGE, most defensemen record an average of 20.74 shots between 80 and 90 miles per hour. Hamilton, on the other hand, has fired 83.
Related: Inside the Devils’ Recent Playoff-Ready Performance
Having Hamilton back on the bench could also make a huge difference for the Devils’ power play. This season, he registered five goals and 10 assists on the man advantage, quarterbacking their top power-play unit. Hamilton has a 92.31 goals for percentage (GF%), and even recorded a career-high 122 high-danger scoring chances on the man advantage. Even though Luke Hughes has stepped up in his absence, having both defensemen in the postseason could make the Devils’ power play lethal.
Hamilton’s Impact
Hamilton’s role on the Devils cannot be understated. His point production and consistency at even strength make him an irreplaceable player. Likewise, his offensive awareness, strength, and discipline can increase the Devils’ odds of advancing to the next round.
Despite missing some time, Hamilton’s impact has been felt all season long. His primary defensive partner was Brenden Dillon. The pair averaged 3.54 goals and 69.06 shot attempts per 60 minutes of play. Statistically, Dillon vastly improved as a result of being partnered with Hamilton. His goals for percentage (GF%) increased by 30.96%, while Dillon’s high-danger goals for percentage (HDGF%) rose by 35.58%.
Having Hamilton back means that the Devils’ blue line will tip the scales in favor of seasoned defensemen. The likes of Johnathan Kovacevic and Brett Pesce will also add depth and experience. And with Hughes playing like a grizzled veteran, the Devils have the opportunity to execute a defensive revival. More importantly, they will set an example for Seamus Casey and Simon Nemec, neither of whom has made a playoff appearance.
Devils’ Playoff Hopes Moving Forward
Heading into the postseason, the Devils have a unique combination of defensemen that can take them far. Pesce and Dillon provide consistency, while Hamilton gives an offensive edge. The team has been having a few difficulties at the end of the regular season, but they need to band together in order to make a playoff run.
The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin on April 19, where the Devils will face the Hurricanes in Round 1. Do you think New Jersey has what it takes to move on? Or will Carolina hand them an early defeat once more?
