G31 New Jersey Devils vs. Edmonton Oilers: A good start is key

The Devils have conceded first more than any team in the league this season. They can't afford to do so again vs. a desperate Oilers side.

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

Start on time

Slow starts have plagued the Devils all season long. They have allowed the first goal of the game a league-leading 21 times and are the only team that hasn’t scored first at least 10 times.

While allowing the opening goal of the game doesn’t mean it’s time to pack it in, there’s a reason only three teams are .500 or better when conceding first.

Winning when falling behind the 8-ball is a difficult thing to do any given night. Expecting it to happen consistently is simply not realistic.

It’s no coincidence most of the teams close to the Devils in terms of allowing the first goal (the Sabres, Ducks, Kraken, Sharks, Flames, and Capitals) are nowhere near a playoff spot. Falling behind all the time is just not a recipe for success.

It is imperative the Devils are ready to play from the jump in this game.

Why?

Besides the fact it’s clearly difficult to win when falling behind, the Oilers enter play riding a three-game losing streak.

That wouldn’t be a big deal for a lot of teams. It is for the Oilers. Their slow start to the campaign has erased any wiggle room and margin for error if they want to make the playoffs. They need to stop the bleeding the second it starts and they know it.

I expect them to come out strong in this game. If the Devils don’t match their intensity, and decide they want to make risky plays and turn pucks over like there’s no tomorrow, they’re going to dig themselves a hole they probably can’t get out of.

This is a very important game for both teams. I’d like to see the Devils’ play reflect that from the word go.

Expect fireworks on the power play