4 lessons learned from the New Jersey Devils’ 5-2 win over the Flyers
Before the New Jersey Reds hit the ice, goalkeeper Mackenzie Blackwood and forward Jimmy Vesey exchanged a subtle smile in the tunnel. The team looked loose and ready to take two points against the Philadelphia Flyers, who were eager to celebrate their victory. To the delight of the home audience, the match ended with a 5-2 victory in favor of New Jersey. Striker Andreas Johnson had four points on the night, while Blackwood made 23 saves from 25 shots. Here are some takeaways from the Reds’ ninth win of the season.
Vesey continues to win the trust of the coaching staff
Vesey continues to be an intriguing storyline this season. The 28-year-old signed a professional trial with the Devils on September 14, 2021. More than two months later, and he led all of the Devils’ forwards with 21:08 frost time. Head coach Lindy Ruff rewarded Vesey by using him up front alongside Pavel Zacha and Nico Hischier. It seems the Massachusetts native has fully accepted his role with the organization and has exceeded expectations.
“I thought Jimmy played well, and we moved him up [the lineup], ” Coach Ruff said. “I used the punishment of killing him, and he did a great job with us. He’s accepted his role, and he’s the type to always aspire to. He liked his role and accepted. He played well. ”
Hamilton continues to perform as Advertised
Defender player Dougie Hamilton continues to impress the coaching staff and fans every time he goes on the ice. Last night, he registered a 10-shot lead on goal, scoring the first goal of the night in the first period. After the game, Mike Morreale asked the Reds head coach if Hamilton would arrive as advertised.
Coach Ruff said: “Tonight he had nine shots in two innings. “It was amazing how he was able to put himself in a 2v1 position to get there, read the play and be able to tape up. It was a special gift on his part. ”
The 6-meter-tall Toronto-born led all defences with six goals and 12 points. At quarter-time of the season, it’s clear that general manager Tom Fitzgerald’s decision to lock Hamilton will be remembered as one of the best moves he’s made for his organization. He is third among all scorers behind Cale Makar and Roman Josi.
What are the Swedes like in New Jersey
Both Johnson and Jesper Bratt have found their game and play an important role for the team. They each have 17 points in the lead, and make up the best lineup of Devils with rookies Dawson Mercer. It’s hard to believe that Bratt had a hard time finding the back of the net at the beginning of the season. Johnson has at least one point in 11 of the 19 games the Reds have played this season. Coach Ruff believes Mercer could be the reason why both players have performed so well.
“I think Mercer is really suitable for [Johnsson], ” Devil’s trainer Lindy Ruff said after the game. “That line has a little bit of everything. … Bratt’s pace, Dawson’s creativity, and Andreas feels good about his game. His desperation was great because I think he really liked the person he was playing with. ”
Bastian’s Homecoming
Nathan Bastian triumphantly returned to the Prudential Center, and then celebrated his second goal of the season. Hamilton received a slot from Michael McLeod and quickly passed it to Bastian, who shot the ball into an empty net. Bastian was excited when the Devil announced his immunity and brought him back home. It is clear that his teammates are happy to have the 6-foot-4 striker in the Devil’s emblem.
Hamilton said: “Everybody loves him and appreciates him so much. “We are lucky to have him back and he has been fantastic so far. He’s very positive and gives a lot of energy and is a really nice guy.” Johnson added, “It feels like we’re getting a family member back.”
Related: The Demons Hope Bastian Can Sparkle Struggle Bottom-Six
The demons played a complete team game and continued to show off what they could do when playing according to their system. Jack Hughes is getting closer to his return, and there’s plenty to enjoy if you’re a Devils fan. The team is off today and will face the San Jose Sharks tomorrow at the Prudential Center.
Kristy has contributed to The Hockey Writers since March 2021. She is delighted to use her journalism and cover both the Nashville Predators and the New Jersey Devils. Kristy is also the co-host of Chicks & Sticks, a weekly YouTube show produced by THW. You can follow her journey on Twitter @InStilettosBlog and Instagram SkatingInStilettos.
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