The NHL’s World Collection in Prague featured a new-look New Jersey Devils group led by former Toronto Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe. With two decisive victories in opposition to the Buffalo Sabres, Keefe’s Devils are off to a robust begin. Is it potential that New Jersey is the true deal this season?
Listed here are three important takeaways from Keefe’s first two wins behind the Devils’ bench.
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Takeaway One: Sheldon Keefe’s System Interprets Effectively to the Devils
When Keefe was employed in Might, there was curiosity about how his teaching fashion. It was tailor-made for the offensive energy of the juggernaut Maple Leafs. However would it not adapt to a Devils group looking for its footing? Primarily based on these first two video games, it’s clear that Keefe’s system interprets and thrives. The Devils managed the tempo of each video games, outshooting the Sabres 37-18 within the second recreation.
Keefe’s emphasis on puck possession, good forechecking, and fast transitions was evident. The Devils’ capacity to stifle Buffalo’s offense and convert on key alternatives reveals that Keefe has already impacted their gameplay. This clean transition speaks to Keefe’s adaptability as a coach. He could make tactical modifications whereas capitalizing on the abilities of his new roster.
Takeaway Two: Paul Cotter’s Emergence Provides New Depth
One of the crucial spectacular storylines from the Prague collection was the breakout efficiency of newcomer Paul Cotter. Cotter scored a aim in each video games and added an help within the first recreation. He’s proven he can contribute on each ends of the ice. Keefe spoke extremely of Cotter, emphasizing that he provides greater than he’s proven within the league.
Cotter’s capacity to gel with the group instantly provides depth to the Devils’ ahead group. Keefe’s religion in Cotter might sign that the winger is being groomed for an expanded position. His sturdy begin bolsters Keefe’s case for giving him top-line minutes down the street. Cotter’s contributions are a optimistic early signal of issues to return for a group that struggled offensively final season.
Takeaway Three: Goaltending Seems Strong Regardless of Accidents on Protection
With two top-six defensemen, Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce sidelined as a result of harm, New Jersey’s defensive depth was a priority heading into the season. Nonetheless, Keefe’s Devils leaned on sturdy goaltending performances from Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen. Each goalies stepped up in large moments throughout each video games. Markstrom’s 30 saves on Friday and Allen’s 17 saves on Saturday saved Buffalo at bay and secured each wins.
Given the Devils’ 3.43 objectives allowed per recreation final season, Keefe should be happy the group’s protection held up in Prague. Regardless of lacking key gamers, the Devils’ protection was sturdy. If the Devils proceed to get strong goaltending and restrict scoring alternatives for opponents, they’ll be capable of enhance final season’s defensive struggles.
The Backside Line: Keefe’s Devils Are Off to a Nice Begin
Keefe’s Devils have proven early promise with two spectacular wins in Prague. His system appears to suit nicely with the group. Cotter’s emergence supplies an thrilling new dynamic, and the goaltending appears to be like dependable, even within the face of accidents.
Whereas it’s early, these takeaways recommend Keefe’s management might assist New Jersey have a way more aggressive season than final season. As they return to North America, can the Devils maintain this stage of play? The reply is coming quickly.
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