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The Devils Must Dictate Play For A Successful Season: Can They?

It was noticeable from the first two games of the season, and the question is whether the Devils can win with their brand of hockey and control the majority of the games.

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 2:51 PM
The Devils Must Dictate Play For A Successful Season: Can They?
Key Things to Know
  • The Hockey News argues the New Jersey Devils must dictate pace and possession to have a successful season.
  • New Jersey followed a 3-2 overtime win over Philadelphia with a heavy 6-0 loss to the New York Islanders.
  • Writer Mike Fink notes that defensive issues and board battles exposed the Devils when they failed to play fast.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Mike Fink of The Hockey News argues that the New Jersey Devils must control puck possession and game pace to achieve success this season. Following an opening 3-2 overtime victory against the Philadelphia Flyers, the Devils suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat to the New York Islanders, where they were thoroughly outplayed and exposed defensively.

Fink highlights that while New Jersey relies on speed led by Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and Nico Hischier, the team struggles significantly when forced to chase play. Head coach Sheldon Keefe noted the team looked off the pace against New York, and Fink warns that upcoming opponents like the 2-0 Utah Mammoth will continue to test the Devils' defensive vulnerabilities.

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