G31 New Jersey Devils @ Buffalo Sabres: A hard reset

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Five things to watch when the New Jersey Devils return to action against the Buffalo Sabres:

1. A hard reset

We’ve heard from Lindy Ruff about how the Devils are making strides towards improving in key areas, be it defensive play or compete level. We’ve heard from GM Tom Fitzgerald about how a break could do the team wonders to clear their minds, get healthy, and come back ready to play.

Now it’s time to put up or shut up, so to speak. This team has lost 15 of its last 18 games and looked consistently miserable in the process.

They’ve had time away to reset. They’re getting key players like Nico Hischier and Ryan Graves back in the lineup. The excuses are all disappearing.

I think we’re well past the point of excuses holding any weight but, if you’re still buying what the team is selling, then this should be the last straw.

The Devils are going up against the Buffalo Sabres, another team with just 10 wins through 30 games.

Forget winning. Let’s see a better process. If the Devils can’t start on time, show a pulse on the power play, or avoid breakdown after breakdown vs Buffalo, then this team is truly lost.