Coyotes 4, Devils 1: The final nail?

The Devils find themselves six points out of a playoff spot after a disappointing result in Arizona.

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By David Mudrak (@MuddyOpinions)

The Devils could not grab two desperately needed points against an Arizona team that will not make the playoffs. Here are some thoughts:

Another slow start

For the 49th time this season, the Devils gave up the game's first goal. That opening deficit carried through the rest of the first period as New Jersey fell behind 3-0. 

Bad luck or bounces were not to blame for the Devils' disappointing first period. Many of their problems were caused by breakdowns and a lack of a strong structure. Take the first goal as an example. 

Erik Haula could not get a clean clear out of the zone, and Arizona retained possession. While the Devils had enough time to reset, they fell out of their structure and looked lost and confused.

The final result was J.J. Moser walking down to the top of the circle uncontested and releasing a wrist shot that beat a screened Kaapo Kahkonen. 

Unfortunately, the second goal looked very similar, albeit while on the penalty kill. Dylan Guenther scored from the left side dot, with no opposition from a Devils player. The penalty killers were caught chasing after the puck, with everyone shifting to the puck side, leaving the entire left side of the ice open for Guenther. 

Interestingly, Brendan Smith was rushing the player who was left open on both of these goals, suggesting he was likely out of position. However, even if Smith can be blamed, the goals highlighted that the Devils often fold during high-pressure moments and struggle to play a highly structured game. 

When asked about the slow and problematic starts, Travis Green blamed it on immaturity and did not offer any other concrete ideas about what was happening to the team at the start of the games.

While it is likely true that immaturity has played a part, that trait is mixed together with the general character of the team, which is the second takeaway from this game. 

A lack of fight