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Arseni Gritsyuk, New Jersey Devils (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

Devils Forward Depth Is Driving Their Early Success

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers
By Devora Slonim | Last updated Oct 22, 2025 2:20 PM ET

The New Jersey Devils entered the season with high expectations — and through the early stretch, their offensive depth has turned those expectations into results. Unlike past seasons when the attack often relied heavily on the top line, this year’s Devils are finding production up and down the lineup. Every shift, every line, and nearly every player has contributed to the team’s offensive rhythm, making them one of the most balanced scoring teams in the league.

That balance has translated into success in the standings. The Devils are riding their first five-game winning streak since 2023, backed by strong play at both ends of the ice. Their penalty kill ranks third in the NHL with a 95.5% success rate, and their power play ranks fifth at 27.8%. With improved defensive structure and sustained offensive pressure, New Jersey’s depth and discipline have been the driving forces behind their early-season surge.

Devils’ Top Six

At the top of the scoresheet, Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Timo Meier have set the tone for the Devils’ offense. Hughes has been on fire, tallying six goals in his last three games, including his third career hat trick against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night, and asserting complete control every time he touches the puck. His ability to drive possession with elite skating, vision, and creativity is unmatched — and the numbers prove it.

Bratt continues to complement Hughes perfectly, using his speed and awareness to create chances off the rush and consistently find open ice for quality opportunities. Consistently one of the league’s most underrated players, Bratt’s playmaking is a key reason the Devils are so dangerous on the forecheck.

Meanwhile, “Timo Time” arrived early this season, as Meier’s physical edge and relentless net-front presence have been a nightmare for opposing defenses. Combined with captain Nico Hischier’s elite two-way play — which anchors the group defensively while still generating offense — the Devils’ top forwards have become a dynamic, multi-dimensional force capable of taking over games in any situation.

Rounding out the second line is Dawson Mercer, with three goals and two assists through six games. His relentless work ethic has been on full display, highlighted by a diving effort to set up Hischier’s goal against the Florida Panthers last week — a perfect example of the grit and determination fueling this team’s success.

How about this diving effort from Dawson Mercer!? pic.twitter.com/szv8kChPvp
— NHL (@NHL) October 17, 2025

Devils’ Reliable Veterans

Ondrej Palat continues to embody reliability and leadership for the Devils. The veteran winger has been instrumental in stabilizing the top line alongside Hughes and Bratt, using his experience and hockey sense to create space and help set up countless scoring opportunities. His calm presence and consistency have allowed his linemates to play freely, turning that trio into one of the most effective units in the league.

Further down the lineup, newcomer Connor Brown has already made a noticeable impact in the bottom six. His defensive responsibility and relentless forechecking have quickly earned him trust in key situations — including time on the penalty kill, where he netted a memorable shorthanded goal against his former team, the Edmonton Oilers, on Saturday. Brown’s versatility has added a dependable edge to the Devils’ depth, giving the coaching staff confidence to deploy him in any situation.

While not yet at the same veteran status as Palat or Brown, Cody Glass has also been a tremendous addition. His intelligent puck movement and natural playmaking instincts have strengthened the Devils’ bottom six, adding both creativity and control. Glass has already scored twice — including a power-play goal — and has done an excellent job centering the line with Brown and rookie Arseny Gritsyuk, whose speed and offensive flair have complemented his linemates perfectly. Together, the trio has provided a steady source of secondary scoring and energy, underscoring just how deep the Devils’ roster truly is.

New Devils Making an Impact

The addition of Gritsyuk has injected fresh energy and creativity into the lineup. The young Russian winger’s speed and shot have transitioned well from international play, which has been impressive, as he’s adapted seamlessly to the North American game without losing his dynamic flair.

Gritsyuk has already delivered several highlight-reel moments, including a pinpoint cross-ice feed to Mercer against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Oct. 13 that perfectly showcased his playmaking instincts. With his skill set and confidence growing each game, Gritsyuk is already flashing top-six potential and will likely become a key offensive piece in the Devils’ long-term core.

Arseni Gritsyuk, New Jersey Devils (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

Players like Paul Cotter, Luke Glendening, and Brian Halonen have also found ways to contribute to the Devils’ offense. Cotter brings a physical edge that creates space for his linemates, Glendening remains one of the league’s best faceoff specialists and penalty killers, and Halonen has made the most of his minutes, using his six-foot, 207-pound frame and persistence to keep pressure on opponents in the offensive zone.

Devils’ Balanced Production

The biggest difference between this year’s Devils and those of seasons past lies in the balance of their attack. The team isn’t relying on one or two stars to carry the offense — it’s a collective effort built on chemistry, trust, and accountability. Every night, players are showing up for one another, playing as a cohesive unit rather than a group of individuals. That unselfish, team-first mentality has translated into a steady scoring pace across all four lines.

Even with key players missing from the lineup, the Devils haven’t skipped a beat. Depth players have stepped up, filling roles and producing when it matters most. It’s a true next-man-up mentality; a reflection of a locker room that believes in its structure and in each other. This season, it’s not just the stars driving success; it’s a complete, connected group effort, with every forward contributing to the system and pushing the Devils toward sustained dominance.

Devils’ Offensive Engine Looks Complete

The Devils are proving that championship-caliber teams aren’t built on top-heavy scoring — they’re built on depth, chemistry, and trust in every player on the roster. With contributions coming from every corner of their lineup, the Devils’ offensive engine looks more complete than ever.

As the season progresses, the challenge will be maintaining this balance — but if the early signs are any indication, the Devils’ deep offensive attack might just be their ticket to becoming one of the league’s most formidable forces.