Still seeking their first win on the season, the New Jersey Devils travel north to take on the 3-1 Boston Bruins. New Jersey is still trying to find their way this season, and that won’t get any easier facing a very strong Boston team.
Matchup Overview
Special teams are going to remain a point of emphasis for the Devils, as their penalty kill is currently only 46.2%, or 29th overall. New Jersey also is still waiting for its first power play goal and will face off against the 22nd ranked penalty kill. The lack of discipline and poorly timed penalties have come back to haunt the Devils numerous times already this season and need to be minimized moving forward.
Players to Watch
Taylor Hall
He’s still in search of his first goal on the season, but it hasn’t been for lack of opportunities. Hall has uncharacteristically been starting more shifts in the defensive zone. But based on his career history, that isn’t something that should continue. He needs to be the best player on the ice and drive the play for this team to really get rolling, and I expect that to happen tonight.
Damon Severson
With Andy Greene injured, more ice time has fallen up Severson, and that very well may be good for his overall game. The Devils’ defensive zone play has been an issue as of late, especially when it comes to clearing the zone and getting crisp breakouts. Expect to see Severson on the ice often in this one, and if Damon has a good game, it’s a great sign for the Devils’ chance of victory.
Projected Lines
Boston Bruins
- Marchand – Bergeron – Pastrnak
- Debrusk – Krejci – Kuhlman
- Heinen – Coyle – Ritchie
- Nordstrom – Kuraly – Wagner
- Chara – McAvoy
- Krug – Carlo
- Grzelcyk – Clifton
- Rask
- Halak
Where to Watch
TD Garden, MSG, NESN: 7:00 p.m.
Prediction
The Bruins are a stout defensive team, and it is also their home opener, making it an even more hostile environment. The Devils have struggled on the road, and Boston won’t be any easier. There are still going to be bumps in the road, and I, unfortunately, think the Devils lose this one 4-2.