The New Jersey Devils wrapped up their Western Canada road trip with a 3-0 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, finishing the trip with a commendable 2-1-0 record. This successful outing comes after a challenging period, where they suffered a four-game losing streak that highlighted issues in goaltending. In stark contrast, goaltending emerged as a key asset during this trip, with Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen delivering exceptional performances, including two shutouts. The Devils are still navigating their team identity, showing flashes of brilliance amid concerns over consistency. Overall, they ended the month with a record of 7-4-2, slightly above .500, as they look to maintain momentum moving forward.
By the Numbers
- The Devils completed the Western Canada trip with a 2-1-0 record.
- Jacob Markstrom recorded a shutout against Vancouver with 20 saves.
- Jake Allen finished the trip with a shutout against Edmonton, making 31 saves.
Yes, But
While the goaltending greatly improved during this trip, concerns about the team’s overall consistency and defensive synchronization remain. The Devils have struggled to maintain a cohesive rhythm, leading to fan unease about their long-term viability. Goaltending can elevate a team, but it is not a standalone solution to lingering structural issues.
State of Play
- The Devils achieved two shutouts from their goaltenders, enhancing team morale.
- The team’s record stands at 7-4-2, just above .500, after a tumultuous start to the season.
What’s Next
The Devils will aim to build upon their recent success as they head into a crucial month of November, seeking to solidify their identity and improve their team dynamics. With their goaltenders performing well, they need to maintain this momentum while addressing ongoing challenges on defense.
Bottom Line
The recent performances of Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen are pivotal; their ability to deliver under pressure will determine the Devils’ trajectory this season. As the team works to enhance overall performance, a unified defensive effort and continued strong goaltending will be essential for their success.