Blake Wheeler shoots the puck past the outstretched arm of Cory Schneider for Winnipeg’s second goal of the game (Photo by Darcy Finley/Getty Images)
Recap
The Devils played a tight-checking game until two quick goals by Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler gave Winnipeg a 2-0 lead late in the second period. The Devils found themselves playing from behind once again. They battled back getting a Miles Wood goal early in the third period to trim their deficit to 2-1. Unfortunately, it wasn’t long before Winnipeg recaptured a two goal lead after Patrik Laine scored on a wicked wrister to beat Schneider on his blocker side. Nick Lappin scored his fourth goal of the year to get the Devils deficit back down to one, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough as the Devils would eventually fall 3-2 to Winnipeg.
New Jersey had their chances to tie the game, including a late power play, but were unable to convert. They look to get back in the win column Thursday night with the return of Taylor Hall looming.
Game Notes
- Miles Wood was the one of the most noticeable, if not the most noticeable Devil on the ice. He scored his first NHL goal and had numerous chances including a penalty shot in which he was denied. Wood has blazing speed and gives New Jersey something they’re lacking up front. Look for him to stay in the lineup for the foreseeable future.
- If there was a silver lining to last night’s game, it’s that New Jersey was able to hold Winnipeg to 29 shots on goal. They also out-attempted Winnipeg 45-37 at even-strength. Considering their performances as of late, this was definitely a step in the right direction.
- Without Yohann Auvitu in the lineup, the Devils bottom-four defense pairs really lack depth. Auvitu is the Devils’ best possession driver from their blue line and helps New Jersey make effective break outs from their own end. Aside from John Moore, they don’t have an effective offensive option when Auvitu is not out there after Greene/Severson and it shows.
- Damon Severson had another effective game for the Devils. He was sound defensively, and made a great play to set up Nick Lappin’s goal. It’s hard to imagine what the Devils defense would look like without him. Hopefully, we won’t have to find out any time soon.
- Despite not getting on the scoresheet, Sergey Kalinin had a strong game for the Devils. He was denied on a breakaway and was +6 in shot attempts for the game. For the season, he’s at 54% possession, the best mark on the team. The scoring chances have been coming the last couple of games. If he keeps it up, eventually one of them will fall his way.