Coming off a 10-shot performance against the Bruins, the Devils looked the same early against the Islanders.
New Jersey recorded just two shots on goal in the 1st period before getting it together in the 2nd period.
They led for most of the final half of the game, but once again were unable to hold a lead and eventually fell in overtime.
10 takeaways:
1. Keith Kinkaid was once again very good. The Devils were outshot 7-2 in the 1st and 30-20 in regulation but Kinkaid made several big stops, and held the Isles to just two goals through 60 minutes. Once again he gave the Devils a quality start, and once again he left the ice as the losing goaltender. Through five career starts (vs CHI, TB, MTL, and NYI x 2) he's posted a sub .900SV% just once - he stopped 22-25 vs Montreal - yet he's won just one game. He has led the Devils to at least a point in four of the five games, though.
2. Adam Larsson has played very well of late, and for the most part was good once again last night, but John Tavares' game-winner was on him. Larsson was coming out from behind the net, and Tavares rubbed him off the puck, grabbed it and then won the game for New York. Larsson's only 22 and will lose some puck battles to older, stronger players, but that's a tough way to go down. He played close to 50 minutes in just over 24 hours, though, so that may have factored in.
3. Speaking of Larsson, the offensive side of his game is starting to shine through. His outlet passes have been accurate, and he's starting to produce offensively. In his last four games he has three assists and six shots on goal while averaging over 23 minutes per game. Encouraging stuff.
4. Another guy who has been good lately: Travis Zajac. He has six points in his last seven games and is starting to produce as he is paid to do. He's looked very confident, and seems to be generating more scoring chances. His give-and-go with Patrik Elias on the 1st goal was very nice.
5. What's up with Mike Cammalleri? He had 15 points in his first 20 games as a Devil and was a consistent scoring threat. He's cooled right off, though, recording just three points in his last 12 games. Guess he wants the Devils to get Connor McDavid, too.
6. Mark Fraser isn't playing tough minutes, but he's holding his own when he is on the ice. For the most part he's doing fine in possession, and his physical presence has helped the Devils. He's definitely been better than I expected, so credit to him.
7. Adam Henrique: 15:51; Dainius Zubrus: 16:03; Martin Havlat: 17:06. Can this not be a thing?
8. Of all things I didn't expect to say this year: I don't like Steve Bernier sitting. He's actually produced, and has given the Devils some scoring pop on their 4th line while posting positive possession numbers relative to the team when he's no on the ice. He is better than Tim Sestito, and he's better than Jordin Tootoo. Play the guy.
9. Jaromir Jagr was credited with two hits last night. What's up with that?
10. The Devils have lost a lot of games this year, but if you're among the group who wants them to lose games in order to improve their pick you'll love their upcoming schedule. New Jersey is off until Wednesday, but their next five are @ LA, @ ANA, @ SJ, vs TOR, vs PIT. That's four playoff teams and a team that is a point out. It could get ugly.
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