Last summer, people didn't expect much out of Johnathan Kovacevic. Fast-forward a year, and he has transformed himself into one of the best defenders.

With the Devils taking steps towards rounding out the roster this month, let’s look at some negative trends from the previous season that should be addressed in September.

It’s safe to say that the New Jersey Devils’ season didn’t end the way fans had anticipated, losing countless players to injury and suffering a first-round exit in the playoffs.

Paul Cotter was acquired last offseason in a trade with the Vegas Golden Knights. He was impactful this season for the New Jersey Devils.