Stanley Cup 2012: Devils' X-Factors That Will Swing Series

Stars fail to rise in the Stanley Cup every season.

In 2012, just like the years before, often-overlooked role players will shine instead and give their team the edge in the championship series. Here are the biggest X-factors to watch for the underdog New Jersey Devils in their squad’s efforts to upset the Los Angeles Kings..

3. Steve Bernier

In the regular season, Steve Bernier recorded a whopping six points for the Devils. That didn't prevent him from making an impact against the New York Rangers in the conference finals, though. In New Jersey's wins, he delivered three key assists fueling their triumphs.

It isn’t like Bernier is taking advantage of an increase in playing time either. The right wing actually averaged around 12 minutes per game in the regular season and is down to less than 11 minutes a contest now—he’s simply taking advantage of his opportunities. And if he continues to do that, the Devils will receive a much-needed boost vs. the Kings.

2. Ryan Carter

Like Bernier, Ryan Carter wasn’t exactly a must-watch player for the Devils in the regular season. He scored just eight points all year long. Against the Rangers, though, he emerged as a major contributor scoring three goals in New Jersey wins.

Carter actually receives less playing time than Bernier too at less than nine minutes a game. New Jersey won’t be beat if it continues to get such stellar efforts from its valuable role players.

1. Adam Henrique

While Henrique’s phenomenal postseason performances aren’t nearly as surprising as Bernier and Carter’s, his play still has surpassed all expectations. The center has recorded three goals and eight assists in the playoffs. Two of those goals were game winners in overtime too.

If the young Henrique continues to pull off clutch plays come crunch time, New Jersey will be well on its way to a Stanley Cup victory.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

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