G66 New Jersey Devils @ Dallas Stars: The auditions begin

With the Devils all but officially eliminated from playoff contention, players are starting to stake their claim for next season.

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

It’s not getting easier

March has not been kind to the Devils. They have won only one of six games and their 33 Goals For% at 5v5 ranks them 30th in the NHL.

Getting back on track will be an extremely tall order against Pete DeBoer’s Stars. They have played lights out of late, owning a sparkling 58.32 xGF% at 5v5 this month.

The continued emergence of Wyatt Johnston, as well as the promotion of top prospect Logan Stankoven (who has predictably turned into a steal), has given the Stars three legitimately excellent lines who can carry the run of play and score goals.

Slowing down wave after wave is going to be difficult, especially on the road without the ability to control matchups.

The Stars have feasted at home all season long. They have scored 3.83 goals per 60, which is more than all but the Avalanche and Oilers.

With little team confidence, and an extremely banged up/watered down defense core, it is imperative the Devils manage the puck well in this game.

If we see a repeat of the slop-fest they put forth against the Rangers, it is going to be a long, long, night.

An unforeseen Achilles heel