Devils Defense Dominates as Flyers Struggle for Consistency on Both Ends

Devils Look to Extend Winning Streak, Flyers Aim for Turnaround

In what promises to be an intense Metropolitan Division matchup, the New Jersey Devils (28-17-6) face off against the Philadelphia Flyers (22-22-6), both teams seeking to improve their positions in the standings. The Devils come into this contest with momentum, riding a two-game win streak, while the Flyers are struggling, having dropped two consecutive games. The Devils currently hold the third spot in the division, while the Flyers have fallen to sixth, as they look to avoid slipping further behind in the tight division race.

Devils’ Strong Defense Leads the Way

The New Jersey Devils have been one of the most balanced teams in the NHL this season, with both their offense and defense contributing to their success. Offensively, the Devils have averaged 3.08 goals per game, ranking among the league’s top teams in scoring. They’ve scored an impressive nine goals in their last two victories, led by the dynamic duo of Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. The pair has combined for 35 goals and 77 assists this season, driving the team’s top line.

However, the Devils’ success isn’t just limited to their offense. The defense has been their backbone, allowing just 2.51 goals per game, which ranks among the best in the league. Over their past two games, they’ve limited opponents to only four goals. Johnathan Kovacevic and Jonas Siegenthaler have been standout performers on the blue line, combining for 13.5 defensive point shares. Meanwhile, Dougie Hamilton and Brenden Dillon, two key defensemen, contribute significantly in both ends of the ice, adding another 12.2 defensive point shares to help lock down opposing offenses.

In net, goaltender Jake Allen has been steady with a .902 save percentage and a 2.67 goals-against average (GAA) on 417 shots faced. With the defense stepping up, Allen’s solid play gives the Devils a reliable presence between the pipes.

Flyers Struggle to Find Consistency on Both Ends

The Philadelphia Flyers have encountered difficulties on both offense and defense this season, leading to their current standing in sixth place in the Metropolitan Division. Their offense has been stagnant, averaging just 2.94 goals per game. Despite strong individual performances from players like Travis Konecny (who leads the team in goals and assists), Owen Tippett, and Matvei Michkov, the Flyers have struggled to get consistent scoring beyond their top line. The lack of secondary scoring has left the Flyers vulnerable to defensive pressure from opponents, as only six skaters have scored nine or more goals.

The Flyers’ defense has been equally problematic. They’re allowing 3.36 goals per game, a mark that ranks near the bottom of the NHL. Over their last two games, the Flyers have surrendered nine goals, indicating significant struggles in limiting opposing offenses. Despite Travis Sanheim and Rasmus Ristolainen combining for 14.7 defensive point shares, the rest of the defensive unit has failed to step up, allowing too many high-quality scoring chances.

Goaltender Samuel Ersson has also faced challenges this season, with a .891 save percentage and a 2.80 GAA on 612 shots. Ersson’s struggles in net are reflected by his -6.5 goals saved above average, underscoring the issues the Flyers face in goal.

Conclusion

With their offensive depth, strong defense, and steady goaltending, the New Jersey Devils are poised to continue their winning ways against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers will need a much-improved defensive effort and more contributions from their secondary scorers to stand a chance in this matchup. Given the current form of both teams, the Devils are likely to come out on top and further cement their spot near the top of the Metropolitan Division standings.

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