Summary
After notching five points out of a potential six to start the season against the New York Rangers and Boston Bruins, the New Jersey Devils lost in regulation to the New York Islanders at Nassau Colosseum last night. The Devils were dealt a massive blow before the contest even started when goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood was ruled out and placed on the league’s COVID list.
The Devils have relied on heavily Jack Hughes for some offense. While Mackenzie Blackwood was also vital to the Devils recent success. Neither happened last night, as the final score was 4-1.
The Devils were in it for most of the game. This until the Islanders were able to pull away with the victory in the 3rd period. Nathan Bastian scored the lone goal for the Devils, while Scott Wedgewood was the next man up between the pipes.
Takeaways
Scott Wedgewood’s Play
I wouldn’t necessarily blame Scott Wedgewood for the first two goals against. Mathew Barzal opened up the scoring in the 1st period. This via an absolute snipe over the shoulder of Wedgewood. A shot like that you just need to tip your cap to, and move on.
The second goal was a breakaway goal by Jordan Eberle off a turnover on the Devils’ power play. In most cases, it’s nearly impossible to pin a goal resulting from a breakaway on a goaltender. Eberle made a great deke to go backhand top shelf.
The Fourth Line
As mentioned before, Nathan Bastian scored the lone goal for the Devils. However, that was not the only contribution the fourth line made.
Throughout the game, there were periods of time that the fourth line would dominate on the forecheck and pin the Islanders in their own zone. This resulting in turnovers and scoring opportunities. While they may not be showing up a lot on the score sheet, the fourth line has been one of the more consistent this season.
Michael McLeod, Nathan Bastian, and Janne Kuokkanen should remain together as a line. But, there is a chance that could change with the inevitable return of Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier. It will be interesting to see when that time comes how head coach Lindy Ruff deals with the lineup.
Longer Layoff
The Devils have three days until the team’s next game. The team will face off against the same Islanders team they just lost to last night. That is plenty of time to practice, study film, and work on some aspects of the game. Specifically, some that Bryce Salvador mentioned to us in an interview.
The three-day gap also gives the Devils time to assess the situation with Mackenzie Blackwood. Allowing them to possibly figure out how long he will have to remain out. The Devils need Blackwood if they are going to be successful this season. So, hopefully this all ends up being precautionary in the end.
Next Game: The Devils will face-off against the Islanders on Sunday at 7PM ET at the Prudential Center.