Predicting individual award winners in the NHL is always a difficult task, but projecting those winners for the 2025-26 season presents an even greater challenge. However, based on current trajectories, team composition, and potential breakout stars, here are some educated guesses for the New Jersey Devils' potential award winners for the 2025-26 NHL season.
Jack Hughes: Hart Trophy and Art Ross Trophy
Jack Hughes has emerged as the face of the New Jersey Devils franchise. Entering his third full NHL season, Hughes has become a well-rounded defenseman with an offensive flair. If Hughes can remain healthy, he is projected to reach the 90-point barrier. Over the past three seasons, Hughes ranks high in points per game and shots on goal per game. His playmaking ability is unmatched on the team, and his role on the top line and power play ensures high fantasy value in all formats. Expect Hughes' assist total to climb, potentially giving him second-round fantasy value. If New Jersey pushes for a deep playoff run, Hughes will be the catalyst. With his consistent power-play time alongside key players, Hughes is poised for a big year. His offensive skill and increasing maturity suggest he could be in contention for both the Hart Trophy (MVP) and the Art Ross Trophy (leading scorer). NHL.com projects Hughes to score 97 points.
Luke Hughes: Norris Trophy
Luke Hughes has the potential to become the Devils' top defenseman. There are high expectations for Hughes in 2025-26, and for good reason. He is expected to enter training camp fully healthy, following shoulder surgery for an injury sustained during the playoffs. If he continues to develop and logs significant ice time, particularly in key defensive situations, he could emerge as a Norris Trophy candidate. Hughes is becoming a well-rounded defenseman.
Jacob Markstrom: Vezina Trophy
A large part of the Devils' redemption last season came from goaltender Jacob Markstrom. Markstrom served as a catalyst for the Devils, with a .900 save percentage and a 2.50 goals-against average last season. He finished the 2024-25 season with four shutouts, his highest amount since the 2021-22 season. If Markstrom has another strong season, the Devils should consider an extension that would span the rest of his NHL career. Markstrom is entering the final year of his contract, which carries a current cap hit of $4.125 million. With Markstrom locked down long-term, the Devils would have all the components of a contending team, most importantly, a solidified goalie tandem. The fantasy hockey staff projects Markstrom to have 29 wins.
Nico Hischier: Selke Trophy
Hischier led the Devils and set NHL career highs in goals and power-play goals last season. He is nearly a point-per-game player over the past three seasons combined and covers face-off wins. If Nico Hischier continues to improve his two-way game and maintain his strong offensive production, he could be a contender for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the best defensive forward in the league.
Coaching Award: Lindy Ruff
While individual player awards are prominent, a team's success also hinges on coaching. If the Devils achieve significant success in the 2025-26 season, a Jack Adams Award nomination for coach Lindy Ruff would be well-deserved.
It's important to remember that these are just predictions. Injuries, unexpected breakouts from other players, and team performance can all significantly impact individual award races. However, these projections offer a glimpse into the potential stars for the New Jersey Devils in the 2025-26 season.
