At this point expecting the Devils to compete for a playoff spot is unrealistic, but if there is notable progress from some of their young players I'm sure most will be able to accept another season with no playoffs.
It took some time, but under Lou Lamoriello and the revamped coaching staff we're starting to see that progress, especially from Adam Larsson.
10 takeaways on Larsson and New Jersey's win over Buffalo:
1. First and foremost, Larsson's play under the new coaching staff has been extremely encouraging. Larsson played a game-high 23:35 in last night's win, and that was his lowest total over the last few games.
He's recorded assists in consecutive games and has played well logging minutes in every situation. I don't know if it's Scott Stevens or Lou Lamoriello (or both) that's pushing to give him these minutes, but somebody behind the bench loves him. And with the way he's been playing, how can they not?
2. Even-strength shot attempts with Larsson on the ice: 19 for, 9 against. Even-strength scoring chances: 9 for, 2 against. It is Buffalo, but that's impressive stuff.
3. One last thing on Larsson: he ran the best power play I've ever seen that didn't result in a goal. Again, it's Buffalo, but his puck movement was incredible and he was able to get a few shots through, too. The Devils spent the entire two minutes in Buffalo's zone, which I haven't seen from anyone in a while.
4. Travis Zajac's minutes are down a little bit, but he's another guy who seems to have benefited from a coaching change. He's recorded five points in six games and five in his last five. He's not an offensive dynamo, but if used properly he's capable of producing some offense on top of his excellent defensive work.
5. Zajac's time on ice: 16:44. Adam Henrique's: 17:13. Henrique didn't play center last night, but I wonder if they want to transition Henrique into their No. 1 center and have Zajac eat up the tough minutes as a No. 2.
6. Patrik Elias' three point performance to give him 1,000 career points was one of the best things that's happened to the Devils this season. Growing up he was one of my favorite players and he's a Devil as much as anyone on the planet so it was nice to see him have another magical night at 38 years of age. Lou Lamoriello clapping for Elias' milestone while standing behind him on the bench was refreshing.
7. I don't know what happened, but the Devils have turned into a fight club of late. Whatever works, I guess.
8. It's only been two games, but Mark Fraser has held his own in possession and been very physical for New Jersey in the process. I'm not sure he's going to be a regular, but he's actually played some good hockey. Credit to him.
9. He wasn't tested much, but Cory Schneider was good once again last night. He's just under a .920SV% on the year, which is slightly below the top tier for goaltenders. One of the few bright spots in a bad year.
10. The only way the Devils are picking 1st overall in June is if they win the lottery, because they sure aren't finishing last. Buffalo is 3rd last right now, but they're the worst team in hockey. The standings will reflect that soon enough.
Recent posts