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Devils Show Mental Moxy On Monday Versus Minnesota |
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Devils Show Mental Moxy On Monday Versus Minnesota
With a 3-2 shootout win Monday night in New Jersey, the Devils have all but locked up a first round matchup with Carolina. The tightly played contest saw the Devils let one goal leads slip twice, a disallowed OT winner by Paul Cotter and most importantly a seemingly mentally tough Devils team.
With just six games to go in the regular season it appears the Devils’ skin is finally starting to thicken. Under similar circumstances this season NJ has often buckled and let negativity bury them. Is Sheldon Keefe’s crew finally developing a stronger mental toughness? If they’re going to have any significant success in this year’s playoffs and beyond, a strong mindset will be essential.
Luuuuuuuuke!
I’m sorry but I just can’t stop talking about Luke Hughes who continues to blossom in front of our eyes. Hughes’ goal off of a 90.9 MPH wrist shot was perfectly placed over the pad of Wild net-minder, Filip Gustavson.
Even more impressive, was his late, third period, tie game, stick check, leading to the Nico Hischier go ahead goal. Not only was that play next level instinctual, but it was done so in a risk limiting attempt. If you watch the replay, as the play is coming up ice, Hughes makes a south bound stick check while skating east to west. Since his skates were traveling across the ice instead of back down it, if the puck gets by him, he’s only a few crossovers away from being back to defend the play. At just 21 years of age, Hughes’ uncanny skating ability allows him to easily recover and take “risks” that 99.9% of the NHL should never think of.
Luke continues to be a play driver in the absence of brother Jack. The young defender factored on all three Devils goals, including the overturned, overtime Cotter tally.
Marky! Marky! Marky!
Jacob Markstrom appears to be returning to his early season form with back to back solid performances against the Wild and wins in three straight. With the tandem of Markstrom and Jake Allen playing some of their best hockey down the stretch, the Devils will have quite the luxury in the playoffs.
Devils Must Make The Best Of The Rest
With just six games left on the schedule, New Jersey will get some much needed rest here in the seasons final weeks. An 82 game season is a grind for all players and some time between matches will help heal the bumps and bruises, rest the legs, and clear the mind in order to focus on the postseason. The Devils have a five day hiatus before their matchup with the Rangers on Saturday. A huge game for NJ and an even bigger one for their Hudson River rival.
Hey Siri, play “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen…
As always, please drop some questions in the comments and I’ll be more than happy to answer. Appreciate the support!
-Chris
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