There comes a time when you run out of things to say about anything in everyday life. Today, I have run out of things to say about Keith Kinkaid and how his struggles have affected his future with the New Jersey Devils. Losing games does not really matter that much because the Devils will not be anywhere near the playoffs, but it is how these games are getting lost. Let’s go into last night’s 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Positive Takeaways
Marcus Johansson: Another solid performance by Johansson last night. He had a goal and an assist and has really picked up his play since returning from injury. His trade value is easily at a season-high right now, but he has certainly made his plea to the Devils to keep him around for the future as getting him back in July is no guarantee. If there was one positive you could have on last night other than the fact that it was David Puddy night, it is that MoJo looked good again.
Marcus Johansson is playing his best hockey as a New Jersey Devil over the last month-plus.
Jesper Bratt: Speaking of players on fire, here is a prime example. Bratt scored another goal last night off of a beautiful pass from Johansson. These two have been the Devils most consistent players as of late, and it is not close. It is good to see Bratt playing as well as he has because last year he had a tendency to be a bit streaky, being hot for a little bit followed by a stretch of being ice cold. Lately, though, he has been all hot and does not seem to show signs of slowing down.
The Key Problem
Instead of taking the time to point out every single little thing the Devils did wrong, I have decided to analyze the game myself and pick out the issue that cost this team the most last night. Listing everything would take far too long. I really meant it when I said I have run out of things to say about Kinkaid, but he was the problem. I am not going to start grilling him completely, again that would take far too long.
Exclude his amazing start against the Carolina Hurricanes, which he rightfully got the win, his save percentage over his last four starts is .804 percent. This includes getting pulled against the Minnesota Wild, the eight-goal punishment from the St. Louis Blues, allowing Ilya Kovalchuk and the Kings to blow the team out and last night. Here is his stats page if you wish to look more in-depth for yourselves.
Next Game
The Devils are back in action tomorrow night when they host the Ottawa Senators.