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Game 1 - First impressions

January 15, 2021, 12:23 PM ET [20 Comments]
Roger Mussa
New Jersey Devils Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
Today's blog picture dedicated to Uncle Lou, the architect of the Devil's hay day

Game 1 under our belt.

A few observations, from my point of view, that Id like to hear all of your views on;

1- The team look ok (after first period). Not sure if it was because Boston looked slow and rusty in the first half of the game or the Devils looked better than I expected. Remains to be seen.

2- Hughes... Looked better. Yes a few lapses but I did like what I saw in the first game back. Quick and confident. He does have to realize he is now playing against NHL big boys and the puck between the legs isn't going to work well here when zipping through the opposition. He will begin to use his body better especially as he matures and add a bit more bulk. Again, it'll come with experience.

3- Sharangovich surprised me and I am very excited to see him towards latter part of the season. He did take some hits but was involved, took to the net with confidence and generated chances. A+ for him.

4- Subban..... I got a bit scared in OT when he was out there but that shows Ruff's confidence in him, as well as the 30 minutes played. I do need to see more from PK, but yesterday he did take shots but needs them on net (1 of them on net). He did take chances but didn't get caught as often as last year, perhaps he is more mindful of his defense.

5- I was surprised when Butcher was scratched, especially in favor of Tennyson (Remember someone questioned me when I had Tennyson on potential D and there he was - Yes to my surprise!). Could Butcher be dinged? Could he be part of a trade? Too early to tell but surprised nonetheless. Between Tennyson and Carrick, I don't know who I want less out there.

6- Ty Smith, looked good out there given it was his first game. The kid could skate, the id looked poised and got rewarded with his first NHL goal. Another reason for excitement.

7- Blackwood looked great! Period.

8- The Devils made it a game last night and kept up with the Bruins. A few brain farts for sure but all in all a good outing sans Bratt, Nico, Butcher.

9- OT. This is where the Devils shined and were all over the Bruins. The OT definitely went to the Devils. Very nice to see how the youngsters thrived in open ice. Sharangovich, for one, looked great.

10- I also noticed how old Palmieri looked out there with the "kids". Kind of reminded me of Joe Thornton in Toronto. He is definitely the Daddy out there along with Zajac and I hope the Devils find a way to keep him in the red and black past this season. I really do.

What were some of your observations?

Truly yours,
The Devils Advocate
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