I wrote about the rookie game earlier so let's get onto the nightcap:
*Just what was John Tortorella trying to do when he decided to start Sean Avery against the Devils instead of the Bruins. Does he want Avery to get injured and be knocked out of the lineup, before the season even starts? Is there any bigger single achievement for a Devil (Star, Islander, etc.) then to take Avery out? The guy skates around with a target on his back, so why would the coach intentionally put him in the line of fire in a meaningless game?
*And the new-look, new-mentality Ranger power play? Same as it ever was: 0-for-7.
*I honestly, seriously said that I was going to come into this season and give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Honest, I did. And then Wade Redden started trying to hit Devils with his purse while Michal Rozsival was helping them score. If Tort's rhetoric is to be believed (and it isn't) then both would have taken solid steps towards being off the roster. Redden was better than Rozy, but that is no great shakes.
*And a penalty kill of Rozy, Redden and Brian Boyle was my nightmare come true - only it was just a preseason game rather than the Cup Final. Thank goodness for small favours.
*Speaking of unholy triumvirates, I got home and turned on MSG+ to hear Doc, Chico and Joe Micheletti all together in the broadcast booth. What, Fran Dresher wasn't available?
*Mike Maccarone and his mighty mustache seemed to barely see any ice time. What a shame. But, seeing as he was in the Ranger lineup rather than the Pack, perhaps he has indeed played himself into an AHL contract. One can only hope.
*The other humongous human being in the lineup was defenseman Brent Henley, a late add to training camp. Henley skated well for his size, got into a decent tilt and got screwed on a slashing call (another case of a composite stick snapping after being touched). He may be a project player but it is nice to dream of a Chara-esque rise to stardom.
*Aaron Voros also fought in the game. Well, Voros yet again did his best to stop punches with his face. While I still want to see how he would fare with Gaborik (should Gabby ever get healthy enough to play), the performance of several of the kids during rookie game and that of Jordan Owens in this one proved that Voros is certainly expendable.
*MDZ and Matt Gilroy both played, and Gilroy was clearly more comfortable. MDZ certainly has shown skills in these two games but, as Jess from Prospect Park has said all along, another season in junior is clearly warranted. Gilroy had no problems going into traffic, and certainly none jumping into the play. His goal, dare I say it (dare, dare), was very much like that those scored by that Leetch guy who we used to have. Highly impressive.
*Grachev was better than he was against the Bruins but I think the same goes for him as for MDZ - a year dominating in junior will be better than a year riding the bench in the pros or riding busses in the A.
*All credit to Chad Nueve-Seis. Johnson came in and gave up a goal on the first shot he faced but rebounded to play well all the way to the final shooter of the skill competition. He continues to impress. Hank played earlier and was Hank - calm, cool and solid. With Matt Zaba, Miika Wiikman and Scott Stajcer all looking like solid prospects, the goaltending future of the organization looks good. Quite the change from the Guy Hebert/Kirk McLean/Mike Dunham years.
*Remind me again why we signed Ales Kotalik? If I recall it was because of a stellar shot and the skills to star in the shootout. He can't seem to hit the net and his shootout attempt was pathetic. Vinny Prospal looked a little bit better but the rust was clearly there.
*It was kind of surreal to see Brendan Shanahan wearing the captain's C for the Devils. Seeing as Jamie Ranger-killer is hurt, Shanny took the letter and wore it well. I saw it with a tinge of sadness as I always thought/hoped that he would have it on a Blueshirt. Ah well, cest la vie.
And for those that are missing the Three Stars, don't worry, they will be back with the regular season.
"Preseason Thriller: Devils Triumph Over Rangers in Shootout"
Preseason hockey offers a glimpse into the future as teams experiment with lineups, rookies make their cases for roster spots, and veterans shake off the offseason rust. In a recent matchup, the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers took to the ice, delivering an exhilarating game that ended in a thrilling shootout victory for the Devils. In this article, we'll dive into the details of this preseason showdown, analyze key takeaways, explore standout performances, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play in preseason hockey.
Game Recap: Devils 3, Rangers 2 (Shootout)
1. Competitive Start
The game began with both teams eager to set the tone for their preseason campaigns. Young prospects and seasoned veterans shared the ice, showcasing their skills and determination.
2. Balanced Scoring
Scoring was evenly distributed between the two teams, with both the Rangers and the Devils finding the back of the net multiple times. This parity added to the excitement of the matchup.
3. Shootout Thriller
The game ultimately went into a shootout, providing fans with a nail-biting conclusion. The Devils emerged victorious, securing the win and demonstrating their poise in the high-pressure situation of a shootout.
Key Takeaways
1. Rookies Shine
Preseason games often provide a platform for young talent to make their mark, and this matchup was no exception. Rookies on both teams showcased their skills, hoping to earn a spot on the regular-season roster.
2. Goaltending Duel
Goaltending is crucial in preseason games, and both teams' netminders were put to the test. They made critical saves throughout the game, highlighting their importance in any hockey contest.
3. Special Teams Evaluation
Coaches closely evaluate their teams' special teams during preseason games, including power plays and penalty kills. These aspects of the game can be decisive factors in a team's success during the regular season.
Standout Performances
1. Rookie Impact
Rookies on both sides made significant contributions. Their speed, creativity, and determination were on full display, adding depth to the teams' prospect pools.
2. Goaltenders' Heroics
Both teams' goaltenders stood tall, making crucial saves during the game and shootout. Their performances demonstrated the importance of strong goaltending in preseason matchups.
3. Veteran Leadership
Experienced players provided leadership and guidance to their respective teams. Their presence on the ice and in the locker room can help shape the team's identity and culture.
FAQs: Understanding Preseason Hockey
Let's address some frequently asked questions about preseason hockey:
1. What is the purpose of preseason hockey?
Preseason hockey serves as a testing ground for teams to evaluate talent, experiment with strategies, and prepare for the regular season. It also allows coaches to make roster decisions.
2. Are preseason game outcomes indicative of regular-season success?
Preseason game outcomes are not always indicative of regular-season success. Teams may prioritize different objectives during preseason, such as player evaluation and development.
3. How do players approach preseason games?
Players use preseason games to showcase their skills, compete for roster spots, and build chemistry with teammates. They aim to perform at their best to secure a place on the regular-season roster.
4. Are preseason games as intense as regular-season games?
While preseason games can be competitive, the intensity level may vary. Teams often prioritize player evaluation and experimentation, which can influence the overall intensity.
5. What can fans expect from preseason games?
Fans can expect to see a mix of established players, prospects, and newcomers in preseason games. These games offer a glimpse of the team's potential and provide an opportunity to discover emerging talent.
Conclusion
The preseason matchup between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers was a thrilling display of hockey talent and competitiveness. Rookies and veterans alike made their presence felt, and the game's shootout conclusion added an extra layer of excitement.
While preseason outcomes are not definitive indicators of regular-season success, they serve as a valuable platform for player evaluation and team preparation. As fans eagerly anticipate the start of the regular season, this preseason game has set the stage for an exciting and competitive hockey season ahead.
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