New York Islanders Can’t More Up In Metropolitan Power Ranking

New Jersey Devils | Last Week: 1, This Week: 2 (-1)

Points: 36, Record: 16-9-4, Division Rank: 4
Remember that in our power rankings, points per games played matter. I find that this is a better way to define how good a team actually is.

And through 29 games played the New Jersey Devils have 1.29 points per game rating. Second best in the division. That’s why they’re above the New York Islanders and the Washington Capitals in this power ranking, even though they’re below them in the actual standings.

Strength

The Devils are scoring by committee. Only one player has double-digit goals at just about the 30 game mark of the season. And it isn’t Taylor Hall. It’s 5’8″ 175lbs Brian Gibbons with eleven goals on the season. Gibbons had five in the last 66 NHL games between Pittsburgh and Columbus.

Corey Schneider. His numbers aren’t impeccable at 2.75 GAA and .917 SV%, but Schneider has typically been the answer for the Devils, even when they were basement dwelling terrible. He still kept them competitive enough to avoid the tank. Begrudgingly to some Devils fans, I’m sure.

Weakness

The 6-5-2 home record has to change if they stand a chance to keep pace with the strong Metropolitan Division. Their road record is good. But at the rock, the Devils ain’t too good.

Their shot differential is an issue. They average 30 shots for but allow 33.93 shots against, that shouldn’t translate into wins.