It's getting down to the wire for the Devils this season. With only eight games left, the team is four points out of a playoff spot. Doesn't seem so bad, right? There's just one problem, the Devils are currently mired in a losing streak while everyone in front of them (Senators, Islanders, Rangers, Jets) continues to win. Even if they started losing, it wouldn't matter if the Devils don't fix their play and FAST. It's getting to the point where the games are must-win situations. There's no more room for dropping points. Yes, I know Boston is one of the better teams in the league, but there is never an excuse to give up two shorthanded goals! I don't care if you're playing the '75-'76 Canadiens! You can't give up two shorthanded goals and expect to win games. Period. You also can't expect to win when you get a whopping ZERO shots on goal on a 5-on-3 powerplay. That's just pathetic, but it's not the first time I've seen the Devils do that. I shouldn't be able to say that.
 |
| Photo Credit: In Lou We Trust |
Now, if this was game 40 of a standard 82-game season, I'd be singing a different tune. The fact that the Devils made it a game after being down 4-0 in second period would be applauded, and I would be talking about how this is a great stepping-stone to right the ship heading into the All-Star break and blah-blah-blah. In the current situation, however, the Devils need to be in at least DEFCON 3. They needed to turn around their season three games ago. Now, it's imperative that they start winning again because like I said earlier, it doesn't matter what the teams in front of them do if they aren't winning. If they don't start winning now, you may be able catch some of your favorite Devils on your local golf courses earlier than you'd expect.
All that being said, I'm going to call my ticket rep today to get tickets for the playoffs if the Devils do make it...
The Senators are not winning. Check your facts sir.
ReplyDeleteFrom watching the games, it looks like the Devils' primary weakness is Power Play scoring. They look nothing short of inept even when it's 5 on 3.
ReplyDeleteI was at the game last night, and defense is the key. Marty is still a stud at this point in his career, but if your defense can't pickup the puck when it is a 5 v 3 in their favor, then you have to check yourself. Notice how you made it a game once Salvador left the ice...
ReplyDelete