G1 New Jersey Devils vs. Detroit Red Wings: It's go time

Debuting a new top line, and power play units, there is plenty to keep your eye on in the Devils' season opener.

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The New Jersey Devils opener their season tonight against a revamped Detroit Red Wings side. Here are a few notes to get you set for Game 1 of the season:

Hitting a new gear

Jack Hughes was an absolute monster a season ago. He finished 5th in the league in shots while still creating chances in bulk for his linemates as one of the NHL’s most dynamic, and puck dominant, players.

He put up 99 points in 78 games and yet it felt like he could’ve been even more productive. So many opportunities were left on the table by his linemates (most notably Erik Haula), which shouldn’t be a problem this season.

Hughes and Jesper Bratt are borderline unstoppable when playing with one another. Given the additions made by GM Tom Fitzgerald over the past handful of months, Hughes will have the luxury of playing with Bratt on a nightly basis.

He’ll also have Tyler Toffoli – fresh off a 34 goal, 73 point campaign – playing on his left wing as opposed to Haula. While Haula handled himself well, he also struggled to finish all season and limited the ceiling of what the Hughes line could be.

Sure, Haula helped dominate in terms of chances; but that doesn’t matter as much when he is on the receiving end of a bunch of them.

With the best supporting cast Hughes has ever had, and the natural development you expect to see from a former 1st overall pick entering his 22-year-old season, the sky really is the limit.

Forget 100 points. If healthy, I think 115-120 points could be in the cards for Hughes. He is driven to be a superstar – not just a star – and he’ll have all the help he needs.

With last change in Lindy Ruff’s back pocket, and the ability to control matchups at home, Hughes should see plenty of ice time against middle of the lineup Red Wings units.

I expect him to make the most of it and start this season with a bang.

A new look power play