After looking at what previews predicted for the New Jersey Devils as a team; I look back at the individual expectations I set for each New Jersey Devil as of mid-August of 2009, comparing them with their results in 2009-10.
In the second half of reviewing my expectations made for the New Jersey Devils back from August, I find that the defensemen and goaltenders have all met or exceeded my expectations.
Back in August, I wrote a series of posts stating what I felt should be expected of each player on the current Devils roster. After a third of the season, I go back and reveal how each Devils forward has done so far against my stated expectation.
The Devils held a pre-training camp skate at the Rock today, leading to numerous reports and quotes from Tom Gulitti and Rich Chere. I highlight who was at the skate, Brian Rolston's expectation for himself going public, and the takes of David Clarkson and Brendan Shanahan about the NHLPA firing of Paul Kelly.
This is an index of all the individual expectations I have come up with for each New Jersey Devil for next season. Each post takes a look at past performance as well as what role they will have to play.
Colin White had a pretty good 2008-09 as a defensive defenseman. Therefore, I think - and expect - he can have an even better 2009-10 season.
Andy Greene started off 2008-09 very well, was sidelined with an injured hand for over 20 games, and then had a poor season afterwards. He was re-signed for 2 more years and that his role now has competition could push him to do better next season.
Bryce Salvador did not have a very good 2008-09 season with the New Jersey Devils, ending up as the team's #5 defender despite his salary. Can we expect more from Salvador, as the defensive defenseman turns 33?
Mike Mottau is a cheap, serviceable defenseman who can be improved upon who played with Colin White on the second pairing last season. What can we expect from him? Can we even say he had a good 2008-09 or not?
Johnny Oduya got re-signed to a sweet deal after improving for a third straight season. Can he improve for a fourth season?
