G2 New Jersey Devils vs New York Rangers: Time to respond

The Devils put up a dud in Game 1 and have fallen behind the 8-ball. A much better effort is needed to avoid falling in a deep hole.

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A few notes to get you set for Game 2 of Devils vs Rangers:

Moving on up

In effort to jumpstart the offense, and get Timo Meier more than 16 minutes of ice, Lindy Ruff has elected to move the star winger up to the top line. I like the decision.

Meier has absolutely feasted when riding shotgun with Nico Hischier. He has averaged 1.29 goals while generating a whopping 16.09 scoring chances per 60 minutes of 5v5ice with Nico.

For perspective, Meier played at least 70 minutes with nine different forwards during the regular season. His chance generation outputs were higher with Hischier than anybody else he spent meaningful time with.

Hischier is a fantastic passer off the rush. He will also do the dirty work along the walls to get pucks back and hit Meier when he’s posted up in high-danger shooting areas. They are a great fit stylistically.

I also think Meier is somebody who can set the table for the Devils in terms of a) initiating physically; b) making life difficult on New York’s top defensemen and; c) taking the shots when they are there. You certainly don’t need to tell Meier twice to grip it and rip it.

Look for Meier to make plenty of noise in this game.

Finish your checks