Panthers 4, Devils 3: Deja vu

For the third time in as many games, the Devils dug themselves an early hole. This one proved too big to overcome.

Follow along on Twitter @ToddCordell | @InfernalAccess

Be sure to join the Discord channel to talk hockey, and everything else, with our writers and subscribers.

---

A few thoughts following another disappointing performance from the New Jersey Devils:

Old habits die hard

The Devils were a relatively slow starting team a season ago, with their worst goal differential of any period coming in the opening frame. That has carried into this year – and gotten even worse – through the first three games.

They have yet to score a goal in the opening period. Quite frankly, their -3 goal differential might be generous based on how they’ve performed.

What we’ve seen from the Devils in the early portions of games is inexcusable. They have far too much speed, talent, and depth, to be so toothless in the early going.

Slow starts would be one thing if the Devils were playing in a bunch of home openers for the opposition and facing high quality teams. That’s not the case.

We’ve seen three home games against two non-playoff teams from a year ago and a side missing its two best defensemen (and 2nd line center). For the Devils to come out lifeless and get their teeth kicked in every single time is extremely discouraging.

That’s not to say I expect the Devils to run teams out of the rink in the 1st period every night. That’s not realistic; it’s a tough league. But, my goodness, these starts have failed to clear even the lowest of bars.

I don’t know if all the guys need a couple upsized Red Bulls IV’d into them before each game – or someone to lay a big hit to get the juices flowing – but the Devils are not going to contend for top spot in a competitive Metro Division if they keep starting games like this. Even the best teams can’t dig out of big holes night after night.

That’s why the Devils are 1-1-1.

A double-edged sword