The Rangers worked the puck around the offensive zone on a power play. An errant pass came to dynamic winger Mika Zibanejad at the near blue line.
Devils defenseman John Marino read the play immediately and pounced. He beat Zibanejad to the puck and chipped it out of the zone. Marino then started up ice in an effort to recollect the puck for what would have a been a surefire breakaway. However, Zibanejad, also understanding the situation, got his body in Marino's path, negating the breakaway but also negating the Rangers' power play as he was called for interference.
That type of smarts from Marino has been on display during the preseason and all of training camp. And head coach Lindy Ruff has taken notice of that, and much more from the young blueliner.
"How steady he's been. He makes the right plays, keeps the game real simple," Ruff said. "Has the ability to read, jump up in the play, get involved, which we've seen. I really feel with the type of game that we want to play that's really important."
Marino Making Smooth Transition | FEATURE
The 25-year-old righthanded defenseman has fit right in with the Devils' style of play