G74 New Jersey Devils @ Winnipeg Jets: Taking flight

The Devils will be put to the test against the NHL's No. 2 seed.

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The New Jersey Devils are back in action tonight against the Winnipeg Jets, who sit atop the Western Conference and a point out of top spot in the NHL.

Here are a few notes to get you set for the game:

Working like a dawg 🐕

Dawson Mercer is slowly starting to play better hockey. He has multiple shots in five straight games, during which time he’s generated shots – and high-danger chances – more efficiently than all but Timo Meier.

Yes, he’s getting more opportunity with a PP1 role. But he’s also making the most of it. He’s driving the net assertively and generating more looks in tight.

The Devils need that to continue against the Jets. Winnipeg is a team that plays hard, structured, and makes you earn your ice. There is no free pass to high-danger areas; they will make you work and fight through contact.

Mercer has done that more effectively of late and the results are finally starting to come.

Hopefully, that gives him more confidence and motivation to continue on his current path. The Devils need the dog-on-a-bone version of Mercer who lives around the net – especially against Connor Hellebuyck and the Jets.

Stay out of the box 📦