In a charge to maintain momentum, the New Jersey Devils opted not to hold a morning skate ahead of their afternoon game, marking a challenging back-to-back schedule. Head coach Sheldon Keefe shared insights with the media, confirming that there will be no changes to the lineup, with goalie Jacob Markstrom taking the starting position.
Keefe emphasized the importance of effort and consistency in the team’s performance. Reflecting on the previous game, he stated that the key to success lies in recognizing and committing to the required level of determination. “We talk all the time about consistency. That’s really it,” he noted. He praised the team’s recent display of competitiveness, physicality, and structure, encouraging them to replicate that performance in the upcoming match.
Discussing the impact of lineup changes on performance, Keefe mentioned Dawson Mercer’s transition to the wing position. He highlighted that overall improvement came from a collective effort, with every player on the team showcasing better performance through increased effort. “The team took care of each other yesterday,” he asserted. Mercer, while effective as a winger, has also shown versatility when playing in the center, demonstrating the team’s adaptability.
Turning his attention to the Vancouver Canucks, Keefe acknowledged the challenges presented by their recent changes, particularly the absence of key player Quinn Hughes. He underscored the unpredictability of facing a team they hadn’t encountered before, cautioning against underestimating the skill and speed of the new, young players stepping into the lineup. These newcomers would likely approach the game with confidence, having waited for the opportunity to make an impact against a team that had just endured a tough contest.
Highlighting player White’s performance, Keefe refrained from calling it an improvement, instead describing it as a display of consistency and sound defensive play. He praised White’s growing confidence and intelligence on the ice, noting how he has made significant contributions without compromising the game’s flow. “If you have a great defensive game and play with intelligence, you can play in the league,” Keefe pointed out, reinforcing the value of a solid foundational game for upcoming talents in the minors.
In discussing Markstrom’s role, Keefe stressed the collaborative nature of goaltending. He remarked that when the players in front of a goaltender execute better and maintain structure, it simplifies the game for everyone involved, including the goaltender himself. While Jake Allen had a commendable performance in the previous outing, Keefe reinforced the need for Markstrom to excel, focusing on the play in front of him to ease the burden on the netminder.
With a full understanding of the challenges awaiting them, the Devils appear poised to take the ice with confidence, determined to replicate their recent successes and build upon their foundation of teamwork and consistency.
