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Devils Recap & Takeaways: NJD Sweeps NHL Global Series Over Sabres
Introduction
The New Jersey Devils concluded their NHL Global Series with a convincing 2-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres at the O2 Arena in London on Sunday, completing a two-game sweep. This victory marks the Devils’ first Global Series triumph since 2011 and sets the tone for an exciting 2023-24 season.
Key Takeaways
Offensive Surge
The Devils’ offense has come alive in the Global Series, scoring a total of five goals in two games. Jesper Bratt led the charge with a goal and an assist in each game, while Jack Hughes, Michael McLeod, and Tomas Tatar also found the back of the net. This offensive outburst is a promising sign for a team that struggled to score at times last season.
Improved Penalty Killing
The Devils’ penalty killing unit has been solid in the Global Series, allowing just one power-play goal in four opportunities. This is a significant improvement over last season, when the Devils ranked 28th in the NHL with an 72.9% penalty kill success rate.
Balanced Defensive Effort
The Devils’ defense has also been impressive in London, allowing only three goals in two games. Dougie Hamilton has been a force on the blue line, averaging over 22 minutes of ice time per game and blocking seven shots. Jonas Siegenthaler and Ryan Graves have also been solid, providing physicality and stability in the defensive zone.
Different Perspectives
Optimism Among Fans
Devils fans are understandably excited about the team’s performance in the Global Series. The offensive surge and improved penalty killing have given them hope for a successful season ahead. However, some fans remain cautious, pointing to the team’s history of underachieving.
Cautious Approach from Media
The media is taking a more cautious approach to the Devils’ performance in the Global Series. While they acknowledge the positive signs, they also recognize that the team has only played two games against a rebuilding Sabres team. They are waiting to see if the Devils can sustain this level of play over the course of a full season.
Analysis of Research and News Articles
Relevant Journal Research
A study published in the Journal of Sport Management found that teams that performed well in the preseason tended to have more successful regular seasons. While the Global Series is not a true preseason, it does provide some indication of a team’s readiness for the upcoming campaign.
News Articles
Conclusion
The Devils’ sweep of the Sabres in the NHL Global Series is a positive sign for the upcoming season. The offense has been clicking, the penalty kill has been solid, and the defense has been balanced. Fans are optimistic, but the media is taking a more cautious approach. However, the early indications are that the Devils are a team to watch in 2023-24.
