New Jersey Devils Top Line Shines in Loss to Rangers
The New Jersey Devils preseason is passing so quickly, and every single game is on the road except for the very first one. So the game across the Hudson River on Monday was the last chance to play a game at least close to home.
The New York Rangers won the game after a very exciting 3 on 3 overtime period, but that is not what is important here. It gets said over and over, wins and losses in the preseason mean absolutely nothing. What matters is production and the eye test for individuals.
To be honest, lines two through four did nothing for me. Some of them are bubble players that may or may not make the roster. You expect the lines to be more even when you insert Pavel Zacha, Travis Zajac and Blake Coleman in with the rest. It is believed that once all of the regulars have steady line mates everything will work out, and all of the kinks are being worked out in preseason.
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Ty Smith was certainly something to be excited about after watching this game. Other than whiffing on the puck leading to a Ranger chance, he looked confident with the puck and is able to make plays from the back end. Nobody is sure if he will make the team, but nobody should be surprised at either possible outcome.
The Devils top line was something to behold in this game. Even though it is just preseason, it may be a sign of what’s to come. All scored while trailing, Taylor Hall, Nico Hischier, and Kyle Palmieri each scored a goal for New Jersey. If Kyle stays on the top line with Hischier and Hall, this could form one of the best top lines in the league. This line scored every goal in a 4-3 OT loss. Obviously you’d like to see the other lines contribute this season, but in order for the Devils to make another trip to the postseason the top line needs to produce big time. Tonight may be an indication that it can.
The Devils next preseason game is Thursday, September 27th against the Winnipeg Jets in Winnipeg Manitoba. Then it is off to Switzerland for the NHL Global Series.