G16 New Jersey Devils vs. Montreal Canadiens: Keep building

The Devils have been excellent at 5v5 since Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce returned. They have a great matchup to continue that trend.

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A few notes to get you set for New Jersey vs. Montreal:

Keep building 🧱

The New Jersey Devils have been a completely different team since Luke Hughes and Brett Pesce returned.

They have controlled 55.50% of the expected goals, and 57.73% of the high-danger chances, during 5v5 play over the past six games. Those are top-tier metrics reserved for the elite of the elite.

The Devils owned a 48.25 xGF% and 49.06 HDCF% before that point. Very middling numbers, even for a team with elite talent capable of outperforming them.

Long story short, they were an OK team with two strong defense pairings. They’re pushing great now that they have three.

A home game against Montreal is the perfect spot to flex those 5v5 muscles and continue their upward trajectory.

The Canadiens are a miserable 5v5 team. Whatever you have in mind, they’re worse. I promise you. The Canadiens are dead last in CF%, xG against, and actual goals against. Dead. Last. Yes, worse than the San Jose Sharks, Anaheim Ducks, and any other horrible team that could come to mind.

There aren’t many weak points in New Jersey’s lineup while Montreal’s lacks depth and is littered with inexperience. The Devils should be able to dominate the puck in this game.

More than meets the eye 👁️