Devils 3, Flyers 0: Five observations from a complete win

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Five observations from New Jersey’s shutout win over the Philadelphia Flyers:

1. A 60-minute effort

The Flyers entered play on a nine-game losing streak. Some key players – most notably Ryan Ellis and Joel Farabee – were absent due to injuries and the team recently changed coaches. Suffice to say, the Flyers weren’t exactly top level competition.

Even so, the Devils deserve a lot of credit for their effort. It was as complete of a performance as they’ve put together in quite some time.

We’ll start with the basics. The Devils held decisive advantages in shot attempts (46-32) and scoring chances (24-11) at 5v5. They controlled the run of play.

There were very few egregious turnovers. They forechecked hard. They clogged the middle effectively. They drained the life from Philadelphia’s attack without the puck and took what was there with it.

Encouragingly, a lot of recent trouble points were anything but. The Devils started the game well, out-chancing the Flyers 9-2 in the opening frame. They couldn’t get an early lead but, at the very least, didn’t fall behind the 8-ball early.

The power play was also solid for once. The Devils spent 5:40 up a man. They recorded 10 shot attempts, four scoring chances, possessed the puck a lot in the offensive zone and – wait for it – scored a goal. Again, good sign.

Lindy Ruff’s deployment of the forwards was much better as well. The 4th line wasn’t used too much. Mikey McLeod did get a couple extra shifts for faceoff purposes but he didn’t play more than Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, or any of the team’s top players. Again, a good sign.

One game is one game but this contest was definitely a big step in the right direction. Now, to build on it.

2. Jesper Bratt continues to excel

Another game, another strong showing from Jesper Bratt. He posted positive shot attempt and scoring chance differentials at 5v5 and was heavily involved in New Jersey’s attack.

Bratt started the party in fine fashion. He broke Travis Sanheim’s ankles upon entry, completely losing his man. He dished it to Nico Hischier, who gave the puck right back to a wide open Bratt. No. 63 took full advantage, absolutely uncorking one over the shoulder of Carter Hart.

NHL @NHL

Jesper Bratt picked that corner perfectly.

That wasn’t enough for Jesper, though. He needed more; and more he received. Bratt also picked up an assist on the Dawson Mercer insurance marker, giving him his 22nd point over the last 19 games.

Bratt is quietly producing at a 24-goal, 75-point pace while driving play and posting strong on-ice impacts. He’s heading for a nice pay day.