NJ Devils: Why the Devils Can Repeat Their 2012 Performance

The New Jersey Devils would love to see an end to the lockout in order to prove that they are still one of the top teams in the NHL.

If and when the hockey season returns, the Devils will prove that they can repeat their 2012 performance.

The Devils made it to the Stanley Cup finals during the 2011-2012 season, but lost to the Los Angeles Kings in six games. The championship win was the first one in LA's franchise history.

Despite the loss, the Devils still have a lot to be proud of for what they accomplished.

Last season, Martin Brodeur proved that even at 40 years old, he's still one of the most feared goaltenders in the league. Brodeur finished 31-21 with a 2.41 GAA. Shortly after their season ended, it was announced that Brodeur would sign another contract with the Devils for $9 million over two years.

With Brodeur still in the lineup, the Devils can rest assured that they have a powerful, agile goaltender still in net. Age is not a factor for Brodeur, who continues to put up numbers despite his age.

Losing Zach Parise was a difficult pill for the Devils to swallow, but they're still stacked offensively.

Patrik Elias, Ilya Kovalchuk, Adam Henrique and a now-healthy Travis Zajac will provide efficient, versatile offense for Jersey's squad.

One of New Jersey's top threats is their fourth line in Steven Bernier, Ryan Carter and Stephen Gionta. This past postseason, the fourth line contributed ten goals and 11 assists.

That is a great statistic, especially for a fourth line. 

While it's frustrating for Devils fans to deal with a lockout when they'd like nothing more than to watch their team compete on the ice, it's clear that when Brodeur and company do return for hockey, they will be just as effective as they were last season.