Coming off a dreadful home opener defeat, the New Jersey Devils are making the journey up to Buffalo in an attempt to get their first victory.
In what should have been a great night of celebration, Devils’ fans left the arena looking for answers and questioning why the hockey gods would do something so awful to them. Luckily for the players on the ice, it’s a quick turn around so there is no time to sulk and overthink a bad defeat. Things won’t be easy, but New Jersey now is in position to spoil the Sabres’ home opener the same way they had theirs’ spoiled.
Keys to Victory
Minimize Mistakes
The Devils showed flashes of brilliance at times throughout the game against Winnipeg, but they also showed a tendency to be sloppy with the puck. To add to this, they were a bit lackluster in their defensive end. Often, playing on the road forces a team to get back to basics and play a very simplified game, which may be just what the doctor ordered.
Clear the Defensive Zone
One of the main issues that plagued New Jersey was the inability to clear their own end. This happened even when given numerous opportunities to do so. Tonight will be all about getting pucks in deep offensively and getting pucks out as quickly as possible defensively to avoid long shifts and tired bodies on the ice.
Players to Watch
Nico Hischier
The top line seemed to get off to a bit of a groggy start last night, but look for them to try and take over in this one. Nico will most likely see a fair amount of ice time, with Jack Eichel opposing him. This will hopefully force him to up his game.
Projected lineups
The lineup has yet to be released. Please check the DAB page as we get closer to puck drop for the lineup.
Prediction
The Devils did some good things last night. They just were unable to play a full 60 minutes. Look for them to come out fast and show some of the same offensive upside they had last night. The energy will be high and the arena will be loud, but New Jersey takes this one 4-3 and walks away with three out of a possible four points to start the season.
Where to Watch
KeyBank Arena
7:00pm MSG+, MSG-B