Introduction to the New Jersey Devils’ Scary Trends
It’s the spooky season, and the New Jersey Devils are off to an 8-3-0 start to their regular season. However, despite their impressive start, there are some scary trends creeping into their game. The team’s head coach, Sheldon Keefe, was not happy with their loss to the San Jose Sharks and called out the team after consecutive beatdowns. The Devils have left four points on the table recently against two very different opponents, and the trends present in both games are cause for concern.
Recent Performance
The Devils have not been sharp out of the gate, often giving up the first period lead early. This is not a new issue, as it has been a problem for several seasons. Although it was less present in the first 11 games of the season, it’s becoming more of an issue in recent games, and it’s not just on the road. The Devils have handed over leads to the Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers, and were outshot and out-chanced in the opening frame against the Edmonton Oilers.
Scary Trends
Slow Starts
The Devils’ slow starts are a major concern. They have been doing this for several seasons, and it’s a habit that’s hard to break. Keefe explained that the special teams and penalty kill kept them afloat during their eight-game win-streak, but they’ve struggled to replicate that in recent games. The team can’t afford to continue chasing the game, and they need to find a way to start stronger.
Defensive Structure
The absence of Brett Pesce is too apparent, and the Devils’ defense can’t fall off this far due to one player’s absence. The team has gotten away from their structure, and the shuffling of pairings may be a factor. The opposition has been able to invade the Devils’ slot, creep below the dots, and put themselves in high-danger scoring areas while the defense has been caught puck-watching. The number of high-danger chances given up in the last two games is alarming, and the team needs to tighten up quickly.
Goaltending
The goaltending has been a concern, particularly with Jacob Markstrom, who owns a dreadful 5.13 GAA,.830 SV%, and -5.6 saves above expected. Jake Allen, on the other hand, had a blunder against the Sharks, but it’s a long season, and he’s been solid thus far. The scarier trend is with Markstrom, and the team may need to consider giving Nico Daws a real shot if Markstrom can’t turn things around.
Conclusion
The New Jersey Devils have some scary trends that need to be addressed. Their slow starts, defensive structure, and goaltending are all concerns that need to be fixed if they want to continue their successful season. The team has the skill and talent to take chances in the offensive zone, but they need their defense and goaltending to uphold their end of the bargain. If they can’t, it may be time for a change, and Nico Daws may get his chance to shine. The Devils need to find a way to break their bad habits and get back to their winning ways.
