New Jersey Devils: 3 Observations Against The Islanders

While most eyes in the sports landscape were focused on the NFL’s Conference Championship games, the New Jersey Devils showcased themselves against one of the league’s stingiest teams in the New York Islanders. Much was made about the lineup decisions that head coach Lindy Ruff with the lineup prior to the game. Fans were upset that Janne Kuokkanen was bumped up to Travis Zajac’s line and that Nick Merkley was inserted into the lineup for Jesper Boqvist. No matter the lineup decisions that Ruff made, the Devils’ top performers needed to perform. For the most part, that is exactly what happened. Here are some observations from the Devils’ 2-0 over the Islanders.

Scott Wedgewood

Scott Wedgewood was put in a tough position on Thursday night with little time to prepare as a starter due to Mackenzie Blackwood’s abrupt absence. It wouldn’t have mattered much any way, as he had little goal support or help around him.

Last night was much different. The team played confidently, they scored early goals and when called upon Wedgewood made shut the door when he needed to. He was particularly sharp in the 1st period, when the team found itself on an early penalty kill. Seeing how the penalty kill has struggled early on in the season, his key saves were a much needed boost. He made a great save on a one timer by Brock Nelson and a Jordan Eberle look in the slot.

Throughout the game Wedgewood was locked in as he made 28 saves in the game for the shutout. This is great for Devils fans knowing that Wedgewood could come in and give the team a chance to win when Mackenzie Blackwood isn’t starting.