All About The Jersey - New Jersey Devils vs. Columbus Blue Jackets: Game Stream #39A world class blog for Jersey's team: the New Jersey Devilshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47083/lou-fave.png2013-12-28T12:00:31-05:00http://www.allaboutthejersey.com/rss/stream/50096772013-12-28T12:00:31-05:002013-12-28T12:00:31-05:00Jackets at Devils: Zone Exits and Passing Stats
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<figcaption>Bruce Bennett</figcaption>
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<p>This is a look at the zone exits and passing stats for the Devils 39th game of the season against the Columbus Blue Jackets. It was a mixed bag of results as the special teams play limited the 5-on-5 stats for the Devils. </p> The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.jacketscannon.com/">Blue Jackets</a> are quickly becoming a team that I do not enjoy watching them play the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/">Devils</a>. Be interesting how the rivalry develops over the years. Anyways, this game saw the teams trade chances of the power play variety as the teams regularly visited the box in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Columbus owned the first period for the most part and the Devils found a way to score against World-Beater Curtis McElhinney, thanks to Brodeur keeping them close. Alas, the shootout was the Devils undoing again. <p>
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A significant amount of special teams minutes limited the 5 on 5 passing and zone exit stats, but in those limited minutes, they still managed to meet their season average in SAG. The zone exits were a mixed bad as the Devils still haven’t gotten rid of the turnover bug, committing another 9 as a team, but both position groups exceeded the 50 PE% mark. </p>
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<strong>Passing Stats</strong></p>
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<strong>Forwards:</strong></p>
<p> <span>Dainius Zubrus</span> went 14/16 on the night, generating 4 shot attempts and 1 shot. <span>Mattias Tedenby</span> had a quiet game, completing 3/4 passes with 0 SAG. If Tedenby had a quiet night though, then <span>Stephen Gionta</span> was a ghost: missing on his only 2 pass attempts. <span>Adam Henrique</span> had a strong night, completing 12/13 passes, generating 4 shot attempts and 2 shots. </p>
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<span>Reid Boucher</span> had a poor outing, finishing 4/7 with no SAG. Travis Zajac and <span>Jaromir Jagr</span> each generated 3 shot attempts and combined for 3 shots. Jagr missed all 4 of his passes in the neutral zone, but was solid in the other two zones. <span>Patrik Elias</span> had a poor night in the offensive end (5/9), but managed to generate 2 shot attempts and 1 shot. Collectively, the forwards were below their season average in every category last night. </p>
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<strong>Defensemen:</strong></p>
<p> The defensemen were a bit better than against Chicago in terms of generating chances, but not by much. <span>Marek Zidlicky</span> accounted for half the defensemen’s pass attempts in the offensive zone (5), as well as 75% of the blue line’s SAG (4). <span>Eric Gelinas</span> attempted the most passes (21), completing 16 and generating 1 shot attempt. <span>Anton Volchenkov</span> completed all 9 of his passes in the defensive zone, but failed to register a pass elsewhere on the ice. </p>
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<img alt="Game_39_devils_blue_jackets_passing" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/assets/3777357/Game_39_Devils_Blue_Jackets_Passing.jpg"></p>
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<strong>Passing Data Explained:</strong></p>
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Pass: A reasonable and deliberate attempt to get the puck to a teammate which results in 1 of 3 outcomes: 1) Maintaining possession; 2) Allows for the recipient of the pass to make a “hockey move” (dump in, deflection, another pass etc.); 3) A shot attempt. When in doubt, common sense will prevail. </p>
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What you see above is a chart illustrating pass completions, pass attempts, and pass percentages for each player in all three zones. A pass that goes across a zone or two will be marked as occurring in the zone it originates from. </p>
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Each completed pass that results in a shot taken by a teammate counts as one “shot attempt generated” or “SAG” in the chart below. This is tracked to attempt to determine which teammates are better at generating opportunities to shoot. You’ll also see a “shot generated” or “SG” column to track the highest quality of shot attempts. The last column totals the percentage of shot attempts that result in shots on net. </p>
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<strong>Zone Exit Stats</strong></p>
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<strong>Forwards:</strong></p>
<p> Gionta, Boucher, <span>Michael Ryder</span>, and Zubrus were the only forwards under 50 PE%. <span>Andrei Loktionov</span> did not attempt a zone exit on the night. All other forwards brought the position’s PE% to 55.6. Jagr and Zajac led the team with 7 and 6 attempts respectively, with most forwards attempting 3 – 5. Elias, Boucher, Jagr, and Zajac were responsible for the turnovers in the DZ. </p>
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<strong>Defensemen:</strong></p>
<p gelinas committed of the defensemen turnovers and attempted most exit attempts with finishing at a pe lowest on blue line for game. class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/119383/mark-fayne">Mark Fayne had the highest PE% at 71.4. Zidlicky and <span>Jon Merrill</span> tied at 50%, and Greene and Volchenkov tied at 60%. </p>
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Collectively, the defensemen finished at 54.5 PE%, a significant improvement of their season average. They’ve had a few strong games since the 30 game mark, so I’m expecting their season average to rise in my next summary after the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.lighthousehockey.com/">Islanders</a> game (number 40 on the season). </p>
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<img alt="Zone_exits_game_39_devils_blue_jackets" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3777349/Zone_Exits_Game_39_Devils_Blue_Jackets.jpg"></p>
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<strong>Zone Exits Explained:</strong> Any attempt made by a player to advance the puck from their defensive zone. These actions fall into the below categories (as illustrated on the below chart). </p>
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<strong>Possession Exits:</strong></p>
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P) Pass: When a player passes the puck out of the zone and it successfully finds a teammate. </p>
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(C) Carry: When a player skates with the puck out of the zone, maintaining possession. </p>
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<strong>Successful Zone Exits without Possession:</strong></p>
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(FP) Failed Pass: When a player passes the puck out of the zone, but it fails to find its target. </p>
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(FC) Failed Carry: When a player skates with the puck out of the zone, but loses possession shortly thereafter. </p>
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(CH) Chip: When the player lifts the puck out of the zone or throws it off the boards and out. </p>
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(X) Other: Any action that results in a successful zone exit not already covered. </p>
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<strong>Unsuccessful Zone Exit:</strong></p>
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(PT) Pass Turnover: When a player fails to clear the zone with a pass and it results in a turnover to the opposition. </p>
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(CT) Carry Turnover: When a player fails to skate out of the zone with the puck and loses possession. </p>
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(I) Icing: An attempt to clear results in icing the puck. </p>
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(T) Turnover: Any action that results in a turnover not already covered. </p>
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What reaction do you have to these stats? How do they compare with your viewing of the game?
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https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2013/12/28/5250692/columbus-blue-jackets-at-new-jersey-devils-zone-exits-and-passingRyan Stimson2013-12-28T00:01:02-05:002013-12-28T00:01:02-05:00Brodeur Great, Devils Not in SO Loss to Columbus
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<img alt="Martin Brodeur stopping Mark Letestu was a common sight in this game." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LU4NmUGGXT0sMQpZUQaN5jhGup0=/0x56:4000x2723/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/25828449/459542237.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Martin Brodeur stopping Mark Letestu was a common sight in this game. | Bruce Bennett</figcaption>
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<p>Martin Brodeur played a great game but the rest of the New Jersey Devils really didn't. They managed to get a point in a 2-1 shootout loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets. This recap goes into how bad the game was despite it going beyond 65 minutes.</p> <p>Tonight was dreary for the faithful at the Rock. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/">New Jersey Devils</a> managed to grind out a point against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.jacketscannon.com/">Columbus Blue Jackets</a>. Brodeur did whatever he could to keep the score low. <span>Adam Henrique</span> banged in a rebound to make it a tie game in the third. But the ice was often tilted against the Devils as the Blue Jackets out-shot the Devils 30-17 and out-attempted them 44-34 in 65 minutes. Brodeur really did stood tall. While the shootout woes continued and the Devils lost in it 0-1 to make it a 1-2 loss on the books, the Devils were fortunate to get that far. <span>Martin Brodeur</span> really had a great game tonight. A shame most of his teammates didn't help him out.</p>
<p>Let me put the overall experience of watching this game in this manner. As some of you may know, I have season tickets to the Devils. I try to make every game I can and I'm pretty good for only missing a handful of games. I only have the one season ticket; I am almost always by myself. I do not usually bring a guest, such as beloved family member, a good friend, a solid coworker, or an attractive woman I'm trying to woo. After a game like tonight would have made all of them would have turned to me and said, "Do you not like me or something? Did I do something to upset you?" It was that bad of a viewing experience.</p>
<p>Full credit to the Columbus Blue Jackets for making it that way. They were forechecking two skaters early and often, bothering the Devils greatly. They let up a bit in the third, but they hit back in transition as they out-shot the Devils in every period. <span>Brandon Dubinsky</span> played like his contract was on the line and he could have scored four goals by my eye. <span>Reid Boucher</span> certainly gave him a great chance at it. <span>Mark Letestu</span> was on fire with six shots out of nine attempts. Lower minute players like <span>Boone Jenner</span> and <span>Corey Tropp</span> made a lot of noise, especially Jenner with drawn calls and rushes up ice. Even Fedor Tyutin and <span>Jack Johnson</span> didn't have to spend their entire night skating like headless chicken in their own end of the rink. The Blue Jackets played a very good game and they likely would have won decisively with this effort if it wasn't for Brodeur playing like it was 2003.</p>
<p>Of course, the Jackets got plenty of help from the Devils. Zone exits for all four lines and three pairings were a struggle at times. Plenty of them were just chips out of their own end, which meant a Columbus player, usually a defender, recovered them and immediately looked up to start another attack. The Devils didn't do a good job at all at shot prevention as Columbus put 30 out of 44 attempts on net. <span>Jon Merrill</span> was especially beaten, but each defender seemingly had their moment of non-glory. They ranged from <span>Andy Greene</span> going and failing for a hit that helped create Columbus' goal to <span>Mark Fayne</span> throwing a puck over the glass in his own end to <span>Eric Gelinas</span> getting beaten and taking a foul (and still didn't deny the rush) to Marek Zidlicky's Random Offensive Decision Generator that ended up on "Do something clever and hope it works" a few too many times.</p>
<p>The Devils forwards exacerbated the problem with their own approach to attacking. The first period was a throwback to the Brent Sutter days of just dumping-and-chasing. Given how much time the Devils spent in their own end, some of these were just dumping-and-changing; especially in the second period. The Blue Jackets were well prepared for when it was a dump-in to gain the zone for about forty minutes. When the Devils tried to carry it in, they would almost immediately pass it to the side as if there was a rule of going ahead forward. The Devils got smarter about this in the third and found more success at trying to win pucks. But overall, the Devils could have had more than 17 shots tonight but their own decisions went awry. In hockey, that means more pucks on the opposition's sticks and more opportunities for them to attack.</p>
<p>Amazingly, Martin Brodeur did everything he could to keep every attempt out of the net save for a backhander by <span>Artem Anisimov</span>. That goal was preceded by a desperate split that denied (who else?) Dubinsky a goal with his toe. Brodeur did it all until <span>Cam Atkinson</span> beat him in the shootout. In news that shouldn't surprise any fan, the Devils didn't score once. The Devils would've needed two to win as it turned out; no one has more than one goal across the entire team.</p>
<p>But I can't and won't get mad about the shootout; they were lucky to be playing beyond regulation. That's what I'm unhappy about. Despite three days off, the return of <span>Ryane Clowe</span>, a mostly packed arena, and an important game against a division opponent, this was the effort. Brodeur more than did his job and while they had one rebound put-back by Adam Henrique to tie it and <span>Travis Zajac</span> hitting the post(s) late in nearly stealing it, there certainly wasn't enough for the Devils to be in this game, never mind taking it. Sadly, this wasn't even the worst game in this month (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2013/12/7/5184460/new-worst-game-of-the-season-new-jersey-devils-lose-3-1-detroit-red-wings">the Detroit game</a>); but it's more evidence that the Devils are going to have to scrape for everything in the second half of this season and hope for the best. It's not technically beginning tomorrow, but it's just about a must-win in my mind. If only to show that this team can put out a better performance.</p>
<p><b>The Game Stats: </b>The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20132014/GS020569.HTM">NHL.com Game Summary</a> | The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20132014/ES020569.HTM">NHL.com Event Summary</a> | The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20132014/PL020569.HTM">NHL.com Play by Play Log</a> | The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20132014/SS020569.HTM">NHL.com Shot Summary</a> | The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20132014/TH020569.HTM">NHL.com Devils Time on Ice Log</a> | The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.extraskater.com/game/2013-12-27-blue-jackets-devils">Extra Skater Game Stats</a></p>
<p><b>The Opposition Opinion: </b>Surely, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/">The Cannon</a> should be pleased with a win, though probably not with making it a three-point game. Check them out for a recap on their end at some point.</p>
<p><b>The Game Highlights: </b>It was the Brodeur show as Columbus gave him a lot of work to do tonight. Here's the video from <a href="http://www.nhl.com" target="_blank">NHL.com</a>:</p>
<p align="center"><iframe height="395" width="640" frameborder="0" src="http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/embed?playlist=2013020569-X-h"></iframe></p>
<p><b>Believe it or Not: </b>Martin Brodeur was <i>not</i> named the First Star of the Game by Tonight's Attending Media. It went to Adam Henrique. Sure, he scored his first goal in seemingly forever and it was an important goal. He was also one of the few good possession players for the Devils. He did a lot of hard work on the PK, too. But Brodeur prevented this game from the decisive loss or slaughter it could've been. Among other stops, Brodeur bailing out Boucher's hideous turnover to Dubinsky at his own blueline still stands out in my mind. So does his wicked glove save on a Jack Johnson blast from one of the many lost draws. Brodeur really was great. Sadly, I know it will not last and the Devils didn't take full advantage from the performance.</p>
<p><b>Oh, the Penalties: </b>The Devils' PK got a lot of minutes they should not have received if it were up to me. No, it wasn't because the calls weren't legit. Only Zajac's slash while forechecking on a penalty kill was a really weak call in my eyes. Though I know the ref looks for that hand contact. No, the other four were just dumb ones to take. To review: Gelinas got beat, slashed Jenner, and it still didn't stop him from setting up his teammate for a scoring chance. Fayne had all the time in the world to clear a puck from the front and lifted it ten feet for reasons I don't know. Merrill was trying to battle Jack skille for the puck and he got his stick high. After an ill-advised line change by the team, <span>Andrei Loktionov</span> held Jenner, who still made it to the net and forced another tough stop by Brodeur. Those last threec came within the second half of the second period. Even when the Devils got clears on those calls, it still meant no offense, which is a big reason why they only got four shots in that period as a whole.</p>
<p>The Zajac slash made matters more dire as there was still about a minute left on Loktionov's penalty. The Devils did a great job killing the 3-on-5. Overall, out of five power play chances, Columbus only got six shots on net. After Loktionov's penalty, <span>Stephen Gionta</span> was set-up on another shorthanded two-on-one. He was denied by the helmet of <span>Curtis McElhinney</span>. The penalty kill was as strong as one could hope for and a goal then would've been sweet (and tied the game). I'm not going to lament that, though; just that the penalty killers were forced to play as much as they did. Again, that contributed to the overall lackluster offensive performance as it meant 8:26 where Columbus mostly controlled the puck.</p>
<p><b>Silver Lining: </b>I actually liked what the Devils were trying to do on their power plays. As typical, it was either quite good or non-effective. But the four shots they did get to McElhinney were good ones and when they got set up, they were looking calm on the puck - something they really weren't for most of the game at evens.</p>
<p><b>The Returne: </b>I am not going to put much fault with Ryane Clowe tonight. It was his first game in months. He was bound to look rusty. I was pleased that he started this game with the fourth line, where his minutes and competition would be limited. While I understand it's risky, Clowe's strength lies with his physical game. Seeing him go into checks and take some punishment along the boards without wilting was good to see. Possession didn't go south every time he stepped on the ice. He played with a jump in his step, which is good since he looked super-slow when he started this season. I liked his inclusion on power plays and even the shootout (don't sneer, <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/shootoutstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSAZAll&viewName=shootoutSkaterCareerTotals&sort=goals&pg=2" target="_blank">he's relatively good at shootouts in his history</a>). So I don't have too many complaints about Clowe's first game back.</p>
<p>I think the next step is to see him make some attempts (he had none) and get some shots on net. If he can do that while still skating and playing with vigor, then I think an increase in minutes could be in the future. That would be really helpful since <span>Mattias Tedenby</span> continues to flounder and Boucher is very much someone in his first pro season of hockey.</p>
<p><b>Your Take: </b>I've pretty much said my piece on this loss. Brodeur was great, the Devils managed to get a point, and that was lucky since their play in all three zones left a lot to be desired. But perhaps you think and feel differently about this one. What's your take on this shootout loss? Did you think any Devil not named Brodeur did well? What did you think of Clowe's return? What should have the Devils done differently tonight? Can they get it together for tomorrow's game in Long Island? Please leave your answers and other thoughts about this loss in the comments.</p>
<p>Thanks to those who commented here and followed <a href="http://www.twitter.com/inlouwetrust" target="_blank">@InLouWeTrust</a> on Twitter. Thank you for reading.</p>
https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2013/12/28/5249952/new-jersey-devils-get-point-they-did-not-deserve-2-1-shootout-loss-columbus-blue-jacketsJohn Fischer2013-12-27T18:00:02-05:002013-12-27T18:00:02-05:00Devils vs. Blue Jackets: Gamethread #39
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<p>This is the gamethread for today's game between the New Jersey Devils and the Columbus Blue Jackets. This is a post where users can discuss what happens before, during, and after the game until the recap is up.</p> <p> </p>
<p><strong>The Time:</strong> 7:00 PM EST</p>
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<p><strong> The Broadcast:</strong> TV- MSG+ ; Radio - 660 AM & 101.9 FM WFAN</p>
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<p><strong>The Matchup:</strong> The <a href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New Jersey Devils</a> (15-16-7) vs. The <a href="https://www.jacketscannon.com/%20%20">Columbus Blue Jackets</a> (16-17-4; SBN Blog: <a href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/%20%20">The Cannon.</a>)</p>
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<p><strong>The Game Previews: </strong> John's preview from earlier <a href="http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2013/12/27/5244260/new-jersey-devils-vs-columbus-blue-jackets-game-preview-39%20">this morning is right here.</a> For the opposition's point of view, feel free to drop by <a href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/%20">The Cannon.</a></p>
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<p><strong>The Song for Tonight: </strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQu_4gxHmsI%20%20">"Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley.</a> Apparently "Red and Black Christmas" didn't roll off the King's tongue so he went in a different direction. Still a pretty good tune even if the color scheme is all wrong.</p>
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<p><strong>Gameday Info: </strong><span>Ryane Clowe</span> will return to action tonight for the NJ Devils but <span>Bryce Salvador</span> will not lace up the skates...yet. <a href="http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/fireice/">Check in</a> with Tom Gulitti for this and all the latest NJ Devils news.</p>
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<p><strong>The Reminder of Rules: </strong>This is a place where you can comment about this game before, during, and after it's played before the recap is up. This is a place where we <em>primarily</em> discuss the Devils game. An odd mention of other NHL games is OK, but it shouldn't dominate discussion. All comments will be clean, respectful of each other, relevant to the game, and legal (read: no streams). Please refrain from super-big pictures and .GIFs to keep the gamethread moving for everyone. If you do post pictures make sure to post a title in the comment. Go Devils.</p>
https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2013/12/27/5248542/new-jersey-devils-vs-columbus-blue-jackets-gamethread-39JT Sroka2013-12-27T07:00:04-05:002013-12-27T07:00:04-05:00Devils vs. Blue Jackets: Game Preview #39
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<img alt="What to avoid tonight: whatever would lead to this - again." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6hdWeW02QQrQOx85hFf5bXbSGlk=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/25728363/20131210_gav_ay4_069.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>What to avoid tonight: whatever would lead to this - again. | Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sport</figcaption>
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<p>Right after the holiday, the New Jersey Devils begin a Metropolitan Division-based back-to-back set with the Columbus Blue Jackets. This preview highlights' Blue Jackets' top six, their lack of possession, and how the Devils should approach this game.</p> <p>Welcome back to hockey with a back-to-back with your favorite team. The first game is at the Rock.</p>
<p><b>The Time: </b>7:00 PM EST</p>
<p><b>The Broadcast: </b>TV - MSG+; Radio - 660 AM & 101.9 FM WFAN</p>
<p><b>The Matchup: </b>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/">New Jersey Devils</a> (15-16-7) vs. the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.jacketscannon.com/">Columbus Blue Jackets</a> (16-17-4; SBN Blog: <a href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/">The Cannon</a>)</p>
<p><b>The Last Devils Game: </b>The New Jersey Devils went to Chicago to take on the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/">Blackhawks</a>. The Blackhawks are the best possession team in hockey and it certainly showed on Monday night. The Devils were limited to a mere two shots on net in the first period while Chicago got twelve and a goal from <span>Patrick Sharp</span>. In the second period, the Devils did manage to get an equalizer when <span>Jon Merrill</span> fired a low shot from the center point. It bounced off a skate, Stephen Gionta's stick, and then past <span>Antti Raanta</span>. Chicago responded by continuing to pin the Devils back. <span>Cory Schneider</span> couldn't hold on to a <span>Nick Leddy</span> shot and <span>Patrick Kane</span> pounded in the rebound. <span>Bryan Bickell</span> put them up 3-1 with an open wrist shot through a screen in the second period. While <span>Michael Ryder</span> put home a loose puck to start the third period to make it 3-2, there was no hope for a comeback as Chicago just dominated puck control for a third period. As the Devils were held to only twelve shots total (remember, Chicago got twelve in the first alone), Chicago just increased the score. A Merrill shot was blocked by <span>Brent Seabrook</span> and immediately sprung Sharp for a breakaway that he scored on. Later, Leddy put a shot through Schneider to convert a power play. Throw in three posts throughout the game and it was simply a one-sided 5-2 loss. <a href="http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2013/12/23/5240724/new-jersey-devils-dominated-in-defeat-by-chicago-blackhawks-5-2" target="_blank">My recap of that game is here.</a></p>
<p><b>The Last Blue Jackets Game: </b>On Monday night, the Blue Jackets visited the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.canescountry.com/">Carolina Hurricanes</a> in what would turn out to be a dramatic game. Columbus struck first as <span>Artem Anisimov</span> scored with help from <span>Cam Atkinson</span> and <span>Brandon Dubinsky</span>. But late first period power play for Carolina was converted by <span>Jeff Skinner</span> to make it 1-1. The second period featured four penalties by Carolina and no PPGs for the visitors. Bottom six forward <span>Corey Tropp</span> did score his first of the season. The Blue Jackets built on that by two straight penalties from their defenders; Skinner converted a 5-on-3 to make it 2-2. Carolina went up just before halfway through the third when <span>Alexander Semin</span> scored. They really put the pressure on Columbus, doubling up in shots 16-8. But Columbus would rise above with a quick two goals. <span>Ryan Johansen</span> got the equalizer and the returning <span>Jack Skille</span> put home a beautifully placed shot to make it 4-3. <span>Mike McKenna</span> held on, made one impressive stop on Skinner right at the end, and the Blue Jackets went to Christmas with a big Metropolitan Division win. <a href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/2013/12/24/5240782/game-37-recap-krampusnacht" target="_blank">Matt Wagner at The Cannon has this recap of what happened.</a></p>
<p><b>The Last Devils-Blue Jackets Game: </b> On December 10, the New Jersey Devils played as well as anyone could have expected to start a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. <span>Travis Zajac</span> scored on the team's very first shot. The Devils pinned back Columbus repeatedly, forcing <span>Curtis McElhinney</span> to make tough saves early, and Michael Ryder put home a rebound off a quick two-on-one that began with one of the many Columbus turnovers. The only reason why the first period ended 2-1 was because a shot by Brandon Dubinsky caromed off <span>Martin Brodeur's</span> pad and then off the calf of Cam Atkinson right in front. A bad bounce to be sure. Even the second started well enough as <span>Patrik Elias</span> set up <span>Damien Brunner</span> for his first goal in a long time. But the Devils simply couldn't stop the unit of Dubinsky, Atkinson, and <span>Matt Calvert</span>. That line put Columbus right back in the game with the next three goals scored: two in the second and one on their first shift in the third period. Martin Brodeur was bad, the Devils only had trouble with this unit, and their attack slowed up. The Devils absolutely responded in the third period and got a second goal from Brunner off a rebound. But after being quiet all game long, Ryan Johansen and <span>Nick Foligno</span> made some noise. On their only attacking shift of the night and getting not exactly New Jersey's best five men out there, they just maintained possession for at least 45 seconds as Johansen kept trying to make a set-play into the crease. He missed the first time, but on the second, his attempt ricocheted off Foligno's skate and into the net. The Devils lost 5-4 in what was ultimately a choking effort. If only the Devils could have stopped the Dubinsky line or if only Brodeur was just decent in net. If only. <a href="http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2013/12/10/5198530/choking-columbus-new-jersey-devils-lose-late-columbus-blue-jackets" target="_blank">My recap of the loss is here.</a> Over at The Cannon, <a href="http://www.jacketscannon.com/2013/12/10/5198516/game-31-recap-an-unexpected-shootout" target="_blank">Mike MacLean had plenty of praise for the Dubinsky line in his recap.</a></p>
<p><b>The Goal: </b>At home, get the best match-ups against their top six. While it's not the same line as the last Devils-Blue Jackets game, I really want the Devils to stamp down on Dubinsky's line. Anisimov, I think, is a better player than Calvert and he's been more productive this season with ten goals and eight assists. He'll likely get more points as he continues to play with Atkinson, Columbus' most prolific shooter with 108 shots, and Dubinsky, who not only gets up for Devils games (<a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3880/splits/?season=career" target="_blank">12 G, 13 A in 34 games against NJ in his career</a>) but he's also Columbus' second leading scorer (6 G, 17 A in 31 games). Dubinsky and Atkinson were too brilliant on December 10 and they've been among <a href="http://www.extraskater.com/players/on-ice?min_gp=1&season=2013&sit=5v5&team=cbj" target="_blank">Columbus' best possession players.</a> The Devils will need to them to be far quieter. To do that, they must force them to defend more than attack; which is why the match-ups against them really matter.</p>
<p>Of course, I wouldn't expect the Devils to limit Ryan Johansen as much as they did on that night. Seriously, Johansen, <span>R.J. Umberger</span>, and Foligno did very little until the end of that game. Usually, that's a good thing, but it cost them on that night. My hope is that it doesn't get to that point again but I really doubt those three will be so inconsequential. Johansen is having a fantastic season as he currently leads the Blue Jackets with fifteen goals and thirty points. Foligno and Umberger each have ten goals and at least ten assists (11 for Foligno, 10 for Umberger). It's a line that has been quite successful all season long despite that two-thirds of that line has been creamed in possession. I don't want the Devils to ignore them at the cost of trying to make sure the Dubinsky unit doesn't beat them again.</p>
<p><b>Pound the Puck: </b>On Saturday in D.C., the Devils demonstrated how a good possession team can really make it a long night for an opposing team that isn't so good in possession. Constantly working the defense over and going for long stretches without conceding a shot makes it so much easier to try and win. Even when behind in the game. Fortunately for the Devils, the Blue Jackets have not been that much better than the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.japersrink.com/">Capitals</a> when it comes to possession. In 5-on-5 close-score situations, their Fenwick% (attempts without blocks) is <a href="http://www.extraskater.com/teams/on-ice?sort=fenwick_pct&type=total&sit=5v5close" target="_blank">the seventh lowest in the league at 47.4% according to Extra Skater.</a> Not as bad as Washington, but still pretty bad. In 5-on-5 situations overall, their Corsi% (all attempts) is <a href="http://www.extraskater.com/teams/on-ice?sit=5v5&sort=corsi_pct&type=total" target="_blank">the ninth lowest in the league at 47.9% according to Extra Skater.</a> Again, that's still quite low. The Blue Jackets concede only <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/teamstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSAAAll&sort=avgShotsAgainstPerGame&viewName=summary" target="_blank">30.8 shots per game according to NHL.com</a>, but that's still in the bottom third of the league. While the Devils certainly don't shoot a lot, they're a top-ten possession team. This is the sort of game where the Devils should be able to repeatedly pin back the opposition. They did so on December 10, Dubinsky-line-being-on-fire aside.</p>
<p>The Devils should be able to emphasize this advantage and having the last change can only help them out. The unit of Travis Zajac, <span>Jaromir Jagr</span>, and <span>Dainius Zubrus</span> should have a field day against one of Columbus' pairings. Hopefully it'll be <span>Fedor Tyutin</span> and USA Hockey's Favorite Overrated Black Hole, <span>Jack Johnson</span>. (Surprise: <a href="http://www.extraskater.com/players/on-ice?sit=5v5&pos=D&min_gp=1&team=cbj&season=2013" target="_blank">Columbus' top pairing has been wrecked in possession.</a> This is partially why their team isn't good at it.) I'd like to see Patrik Elias have a good game and what better time than a game against a team that has defended a lot more at evens than not? There should be plenty of space from the point as I expect the Devils to get the puck in deep. This could be a great night for <span>Andy Greene</span> to continue to make USA Hockey look stupid for not even considering, <span>Eric Gelinas</span> to bust out The Truth, or even have <span>Marek Zidlicky</span> make decent plays. I'm really looking forward to seeing the Devils get back to forcing the issue after seeing Chicago do it to them for the better part of sixty minutes on Monday. that's what should happen, at least.</p>
<p>Additionally, the Columbus penalty kill is another part that can be exploited. I know that assumes the Devils power play to be something resembling "reliably competent." However, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.extraskater.com/teams/on-ice?sit=sh&sort=sa&type=rate">the Blue Jackets are 23rd in the league in shots against per 60 in shorthanded situations according to Extra Skater.</a> They concede more than your average penalty kill while being a bit <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/teamstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSAAAll&sort=timesShort&viewName=penaltyKill">under the league median in success rate and number of shorthanded situations.</a> Should the Devils be able to do things like carry the puck into the zone and get set up, then they should be able to find shooting lanes to the net.</p>
<p><b>A Backup or a Third-Stringer: </b>If there's one other reason the Devils should take initiative and keep swarming the Blue Jackets, then it's their goaltending. Curtis McElhinney and Mike McKenna have been forced into playing more due to Sergei Bobrovsky's injury. Both haven't been too terrible <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/playerstats.htm?season=20132014&gameType=2&team=CBJ&position=G&country=&status=&viewName=specialTeamSaves" target="_blank">based on NHL.com's numbers.</a> McKenna has a better even strength save percentage at 91.9%, though he's only appeared in four games. McElhinney has been getting more starts and he's a little lower at 91.2%. They aren't great numbers, but a team may be able to work with them. That said, they aren't great goalies either. McElhinney wasn't really a good back up in the past and McKenna is a third stringer. Regardless of who they start, I want the Devils to force them to be great.</p>
<p><b>Speaking of Starters, Does It Matter Tonight?: </b>The Devils have been splitting starts between Martin Brodeur and Cory Schneider on back-to-back sets. It will not be long before they get their next start. I'm sure both goalies would love to get their next game as soon as possible to put their last performance behind them. Brodeur was bad in D.C. I'd go as far to say that the Devils won that game in spite of Brodeur. Schneider got shelled in Chicago and gave up a couple of bad goals as well. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/playerstats.htm?season=20132014&gameType=2&team=NJD&position=G&country=&status=&viewName=specialTeamSaves#">With both goalies below 91% save percentage at even strength</a>, the Devils really could benefit from either one having a good game. Fortunately, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/teamstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSAAAll&sort=avgShotsPerGame&viewName=summary">both Columbus and the Isles are in the bottom third in the league in shots per game </a>so it's not likely either will face a ton of rubber. Ultimately, because of the back-to-back, I'm fine with either one starting this one. I just want them to be fine tonight.</p>
<p><b>I Hope Section 1 Doesn't Get To Hear Me Yell "Dang it, Marek" Like I'm Hank Hill But...: </b>Marek Zidlicky leads the team with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/playerstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSASALL&sort=minorPenalties&viewName=penalties">19 minor penalties and he's only two behind the league leader.</a> I fear a hook or a hold from him may be a matter of "when" and not "if." The Columbus power play is about average. Their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.extraskater.com/teams/on-ice?sit=pp&type=rate&sort=sf">shots for per 60 minute rate is only a little below league median</a> while <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/teamstats.htm?fetchKey=20142ALLSAAAll&sort=powerPlayPercentage&viewName=summary">their success rate is exactly the league median.</a> The players to watch for aren't surprising: Johansen and Umberger have been the most productive with ten and eight power play points respectively. Do look for someone who didn't play in the last Devils-Blue Jackets game: defenseman <span>James Wisniewski</span>. He's got nine power play assists, which makes up the vast majority of his eleven total points this season. Hopefully the forwards are able to keep an eye on him at the points if/when there's a power play for the visitors. Don't help them out, Marek. (Note: This is a slight preview of what I'm planning for Monday.)</p>
<p><b>One Last Note: </b>This back-to-back is massive within the division and this is the bigger game. Columbus is in the same boat as the Devils and four other teams trying to scramble for playoff positioning. This game will determine a lot and another loss to this team would hurt. I know it seems odd to think that anything involving Columbus as important in the season; but it is at this moment in time.</p>
<p><b>Your Take: </b>The New Jersey Devils return to the Rock tonight. Will you be there? Whether you will or not, what do you think the Devils have to do (beyond the obvious "score more than them") to win this game tonight? Who needs to play well? Who on Columbus needs to be stopped? Can the Devils even stop Dubinsky? Please leave your answers and other thoughts on tonight's game in the comments. Thank you for reading.</p>
https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/2013/12/27/5244260/new-jersey-devils-vs-columbus-blue-jackets-game-preview-39John Fischer