Devils 4, Sharks 3: The comeback kids

For the third time in five games, the Devils were able to erase an early deficit and earn two points.

Follow along on Twitter @ToddCordell | @InfernalAccess

Be sure to join the Discord channel to talk hockey, and everything else, with our writers and subscribers.

---

A few notes following the New Jersey Devils’ fifth consecutive victory:

The Devils keep fighting

New Jersey’s slow starts of late are a little concerning. It seems like Lindy Ruff begins each game with predictably iffy lines, only to blow them up – and find more success – after a period or two.

No matter the issue, though, this Devils team is showing a consistent ability to fight through it and get results.

For years they struggled to get points after falling behind the 8-ball early. That is not much of an issue anymore.

Only six teams have more wins than the Devils when trailing after 20 minutes while *checks notes* just two teams have more wins when trailing after 40.

The Devils doubled dipped on Monday afternoon, trailing 2-1 after 20 and 40; only to come from behind and win in a shootout.

Is falling behind early a good recipe for success over the long haul? No. Would I like to see Ruff use lines with better track records from the get go? Absolutely!

But it is still great to see this team put on their hard hats and grind out wins even after digging themselves into holes. This team seems to have that never quit mentality and it always feels like they can turn a game on its head on any given shift.

Vanecek continues to shine