The New Jersey Devils, fresh off a victory against the Los Angeles Kings, aim to extend their winning streak as they face the Anaheim Ducks. This game presents an opportunity for the Devils to solidify their position in the league standings. While the Devils managed to secure a win in their last game, they were heavily outshot, highlighting the need for improved puck possession and disciplined play. Tonight’s game against the Ducks offers a chance to address these issues and demonstrate their ability to control the game’s tempo.
The Anaheim Ducks, with a decent record, have shown flashes of brilliance but also exhibit vulnerabilities that the Devils can exploit. This preview delves into the key matchups, strategic considerations, and potential game-changing factors that could influence the outcome of this exciting contest. Fans are eager to see if the Devils can maintain their momentum and secure another crucial win on the road.
Key topics covered include an analysis of each team’s performance, special teams’ impact, key players to watch, and the tactical adjustments necessary for a Devils victory. This preview provides all the essential information to prepare you for the Devils vs. Ducks game.
The Matchup: Devils vs. Ducks
The New Jersey Devils (9-3-0) face off against the Anaheim Ducks (6-3-1) in what promises to be an intriguing contest. The Devils are looking to build on their recent win, while the Ducks aim to defend their home ice. This game will test the Devils’ ability to maintain consistency and exploit the Ducks’ weaknesses.
The game is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM local time). Fans can catch the broadcast on MSGSN for TV and various radio stations for audio coverage. Make sure to tune in to witness all the action live as these two teams battle it out on the ice.
Better Effort: Focusing on Possession and Discipline
The New Jersey Devils barely scraped by with a win against the Los Angeles Kings. Despite the victory, the Kings dominated in shots, doubling the Devils’ total with 44 to 22. Goaltender Markstrom was forced to work hard to secure the win. The Devils must avoid a repeat performance against Anaheim and focus on improving their possession game.
Penalties were a significant issue in the last game, with the Devils being called for four while the officials missed several obvious too many men on the ice situations for Los Angeles. Currently, the Devils are tied for the second-fewest power play opportunities in the league, alongside Pittsburgh with 31, only ahead of Columbus with 26. However, they have had to kill 43 penalties, which is above the league average of 39. The Devils need to adjust to the officiating and avoid unnecessary penalties.
To draw more calls, the Devils might need to improve their possession numbers and perhaps become more adept at drawing penalties. The Ducks have an average special teams record, with eight goals on 40 power play opportunities and seven goals against in 33 penalty kills. The Devils lead the league with four shorthanded goals, making their penalty killing differential one of the best. Improving their power play, currently tied with the Penguins for second in the league, will also be crucial.
The Ducks: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Key Players
The Anaheim Ducks have benefited from some luck at even strength this season. They have decent possession numbers with a 50.60 CF%, but their shot disparity is 230-246 through 10 games. Their penalty differential has helped them outshoot opponents. The Ducks are also performing above their expected goal differential at even strength, with a real differential of 22-23 at five-on-five compared to an expected 21.76-27.13.
The Ducks have a 4-2-0 record against Eastern Conference teams, despite a 36.25 xGF% at five-on-five and a 40.42 xGF% in all situations. Shutting down their top lines will be crucial for the Devils. The line of Cutter Gauthier, Mason McTavish, and Bennett Sennecke has played significant minutes together, boasting a 59.90 CF% and a 4-2 goal differential.
Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry lead the team in point production and are expected to play alongside Chris Kreider. This line has a 61.02 CF% through 28:51 together. Jacob Trouba has matched his previous season’s production in fewer games, playing better defense in bigger minutes. The Devils need to be wary of Trouba’s impact on the ice, as the Ducks tend to perform at their best when he is playing.
Key to the Game: Exploiting Matchups and Line Combinations
Tonight is an opportunity for the Devils’ fourth line to shine, particularly against Jansen Harkins, who has struggled in his season debut. The third line should also aim to outperform the Ryan Poehling-led group. With the lines being fluid in the previous game, the Devils should consider the following combinations:
- Noesen-Hughes-Bratt
- Meier-Hischier-Brown (if available)
- Cotter-Mercer-Gritsyuk
- Palat-Glendening-Halonen
Adjustments are needed, as the Palat-Hischier-Gritsyuk and Meier-Hischier-Mercer lines did not generate much offense. Brian Halonen, after scoring a goal, has earned the chance to play with a more offensive focus. Palat needs to reinvent himself in the bottom six and capitalize on scoring chances against Anaheim’s weaker bottom lines.
If Brown is unavailable, sliding the right wings up and dressing Lammikko on the fourth line is recommended. Dawson Mercer needs to play center to keep Hischier and Hughes fresh. If a shorter bench is needed in the third period, Mercer can move back to wing.
Goaltending Matchup: Allen vs. Dostal
The Devils will start Jake Allen (5-1-0, .906 SV%, 2.39 GAA) tonight. The Ducks are expected to counter with Lukas Dostal (4-3-1, .909 SV%, 2.74 GAA). Should Dostal require rest, Petr Mrazek (2-0-0, .831 SV%, 5.52 GAA) is the backup. With Dostal having played the last three games, his form and endurance will be crucial factors in tonight’s contest.
Your Thoughts: Predictions and Lineup Changes
What are your predictions for tonight’s game? Do you anticipate any changes to the Devils’ forward lines? Will Cholowski play again, or will Seamus Casey get an opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Conclusion: Anticipating a Strategic Battle
The Devils vs. Ducks game promises to be a strategic battle. For the Devils, focusing on puck possession, disciplined play, and capitalizing on special teams opportunities will be vital. Shutting down the Ducks’ top lines and exploiting favorable matchups in the bottom six will be crucial for securing a win.
Devils fans should watch for the performance of the revamped line combinations and the goaltending duel between Allen and Dostal. The game will likely hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively and capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses.
Ultimately, this game is a significant test for the Devils as they aim to build momentum and climb the league standings. Be sure to tune in and follow the action, as this matchup is sure to deliver excitement and strategic intrigue. Thanks for reading, and let’s look forward to an exciting game!
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