DEVILS THROUGH THE DECADES: Devil of a Start

My last article was posted the day before our first game of the 2020-21 season which was, and is now underway again after an unexpected 16-day hiatus in the first month - 17 days into the season to be exact. We knew this would be an unusual season in many respects, but no one envisioned the rollercoaster ride we took or could have foreseen what was to transpire. After nine games in the first 16 days, 19 players landed on the "COVID Protocol" list, the facility/team was locked down and seven games were postponed, rescheduled, and squeezed into an already tight schedule. Needless to say, it was a huge downer after we counted the days (at least I did) to the season starting puck drop.

When the season kicked off, I couldn't wait to see the team in action and the Devils didn't disappoint. We got off to a strong start despite all the analysts and haters' pre-season predictions. The first nine games were exciting, played with determination and were hard fought. Lindy's system and the emergence of all the young talent has been impressive and OH…so fun to watch! The off-season additions coupled with both the excelling young players and the depth we now have has transformed the team. Adding in our veterans and the stellar performances we have seen from the goaltending tandem of Blackwood and Wedgewood along with the formidable play by Dell and Comrie in the appearances they made, has propelled the Devils to a whole new level.
When we returned to the ice following our "COVID lockdown," we had played nine games, were five points out of a playoff spot and had a minimum of four games in hand (except with the Sabres). This could bode very well for us if we stay healthy, can take advantage of the games in hand, and with the highly anticipated and surprise return of Hischier, our new captain. Congratulations Nico - well deserved!

When the Devils came back, they didn't miss a beat in the first two games. They came out fierce and played with high energy. Ken Daneyko summed it up perfectly in the Boston post-game report when he said, "They came back like gangbusters." We beat our foes across the river decisively 5-2 followed by a 3-2 victory over Boston. Unfortunately, we dropped the next two in 1 goal games and yesterday due largely to our lackluster special teams, but I am optimistic that we will turn that around.
Every player has contributed and has made a noticeable impact. Players have emerged that were never on my radar. This was unexpected and more than a pleasant surprise. Regardless of what the rest of the season may bring, we should be encouraged and excited about the bright future of our Devils team.
This season has been unprecedented in every way:
Finally, no fans…I miss everything about it especially with the way the Devils have played, the new system and the speed - these would be great and thrilling games to see in person. I know there would be a buzz in the arena, and it would be exhilarating (unlike my living room). My
cardboard cutouts
are making me green with envy.

It is surreal watching the games from home, seeing empty stands, knowing no one is there and hearing piped in cheering, goal celebrations and pre-recorded fan reactions. I have to assume the players miss us too. The whole advantage of home ice is playing in front of your fans and a charged atmosphere where the players can feed off of the energy. With the pace of these games so far, it would be high voltage at The Rock. That whole element is absent now.
We are just about at the one-year mark (March 10th) since I/we were allowed to attend games. In addition to missing the games live, I am longing for the whole social experience and the camaraderie with my "Devils family" at the arena. My dog watches with me faithfully but hasn't mastered a high five (yet).
I think we took the games for granted and the longer I'm away from it the more I think about all the good times, great games and special nights/events I have spent and/or been witness to at the arenas (Meadowlands/Brendan Byrne and Prudential). In my next article, I will share one of those memories/special nights with you. Until then…GO DEVILS!