New Jersey Devils key statistics

NHL.com is providing in-depth analysis for each of its 31 teams from Nov. 16-Dec. 16. Today, three key statistics for the New Jersey Devils.

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1. Shot attempts differential

The Devils were last in the NHL in shot attempts differential last season at minus-483 (3,330-2,847). They also were last in SAT when behind in games at minus-162 and had no skater with a positive SAT. Forward Miles Wood was last on the Devils with a minus-211, which was 10th lowest in the NHL. Forward Andreas Johnsson, who was acquired in a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Oct. 10, had a plus-70 SAT last season and could provide a spark to the offense and help generate better puck-possession metrics this season.

2. Mackenzie Blackwood's save percentage

Blackwood, a rookie last season, had a .915 save percentage that was seventh in the NHL among the 22 goalies to play at least 40 games, and his .924 even-strength save percentage was tied with Ben Bishop of the Dallas Stars for sixth. The Devils agreed to terms with Corey Crawford on a two-year contract Oct. 9, which could benefit Blackwood's development. Crawford had a .926 even-strength save percentage with the Chicago Blackhawks that was third in the NHL (minimum 40 games), behind Tuukka Rask of the Boston Bruins (.939) and Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets (.927). By splitting starts between Crawford, a two-time Stanley Cup champion (2013, 2015) with the Blackhawks, and Blackwood, the Devils could improve their .913 5-on-5 save percentage that was tied with the Washington Capitals for 23rd last season.

3. Goals per game

The Devils averaged 2.68 goals per game last season, tied with the Ottawa Senators for 24th in the NHL, and were 25th with 185 goals. Forward Kyle Palmieri led New Jersey with 25 goals; forward Blake Coleman was second with 21 but was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Feb. 16. The Devils were 26th in the NHL with 123 goals at 5-on-5 last season but had more success on the power play, where they were tied for 13th with 42 goals. Coleman led the Devils with 16 goals at 5-on-5, so they will need increased production from other players this season.