G75 New Jersey Devils vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: Speed kills

Even in a down year, the Devils' pace has caused the veteran-laden Penguins a lot of problems.

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

Certified Penguins killer

Jack Hughes is quietly developing into a certified Penguins killer. He has absolutely feasted on them over the past couple of seasons, recording 12 points over a six-game point streak. Hughes recorded at least two points in five of the six meetings, being held to an assist and four shots in his ‘down’ game during that span.

It makes sense that Hughes would feast on the Penguins. He lives for big games and going toe-to-toe with Sidney Crosby always has to give someone like Hughes a little extra pep in his step. They are also just an old, slow team.

The Devils’ speed has often caused them fits in head-to-head meetings. Hughes is an effortless skater who dominates the puck nearly every shift. He is at or near the top of the list in terms of players who can expose the Penguins’ lack of speed.

Hughes is very clearly playing at nowhere close to 100%. Normally as fluid as they come, it is sometimes a challenge for Hughes to stickhandle and keep the puck even when he has time and space to work with. That said, he has still found a way to be productive of late; he has four multi-point games over his last six.

The playoffs are not realistic at this point but the Devils are not officially out of it. So long as that remains the case, you can bet Hughes will do everything in his power to make things happen offensively and will the team to victory.

I would expect another productive outing against the Penguins this time around.

Attacking on the defense