The New Jersey Devils are currently struggling to get wins. As of this writing, they've lost four games in a row. They seem to find different ways to lose close games. These past four games have taught this new Devils team a lot about themselves while also enlightening the fanbase a little about why signing Kurtis MacDermid to a three-year deal was not as bad an idea as most people think.
On Friday night, both the islanders and devils kept pace with one another for the entirety of the evening until sudden death overtime waved its hand and decided it was time for the game to end. The devils would lose 4-3 in overtime in what became a very exciting game after one key moment. Kurtis MacDermid, who drew into the lineup in place of Nathan Bastian, made his presence known the only way he could: by providing some much-needed physicality.
MacDermid stepped in and finished his check on islanders' defenseman Alexander Romanov, which brought cheers from what felt like a nervous crowd at Prudential Center, afraid of yet another Devils letdown. After many oohs and ahhs and cheers following the fight between MacDermid and Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield, the team’s energy seemed to heighten. Now, in no way is this piece suggesting the Devils' success was determined by the 4th line bruiser; however, the hit and ensuing fight were impactful for a group that seemingly has no qualms about getting knocked around.
Despite Friday’s losing result and the current four-game losing streak, the situation Friday night demonstrates why signing a guy like Kurtis MacDermid to a new contract was so vital for a team searching for some vigor. Later on in the game, Romanov would slam Jack Hughes with a clean open ice hit in response to what occurred earlier. This situation, Cernak's hit on Bratt, and Michael Rasmussen staring down Jack Hughes have all displayed that teams have no problem going after the Devils' best players and will continue to do so whether the Devils respond or not.
Despite the fact that no one answered the bell after the Hughes hit, it’s clear that physicality and tenaciousness are going to be significant factors for this Devils team moving forward. Even the New York Post’s Larry Brooks said the Devils are playing a dangerous game by not protecting their star players, and it's hard to disagree. It just sets a bad precedent.
While the losing streak stings, it’s essential to understand the Devils are learning, and they are learning through some difficulty at the moment. But, through these times, there must be that consistent physical presence every game night, and, unfortunately, the Devils have not answered the bell in that regard. Times like these are exactly why MacDermid is a New Jersey Devil. That’s why he’s in the lineup and Nathan Bastian isn’t. MacDermid’s presence can energize this group whenever teams beat down on the Devils' top players or whenever the intensity of the game calls for a response. If no one will respond, MacDermid will. Time will tell if it will be enough to help New Jersey climb the mountain to success.