Devils Find Goalie Success, Panthers Seek Defensive Boost, and Hurricanes Eye Netminding Improvements
The New Jersey Devils are enjoying a remarkable turnaround this season, and much of it can be attributed to the upgrade in their goaltending. After ranking 26th in goals against per game last year, they’ve soared to number six this season.
"It sure is nice," General Manager Tom Fitzgerald admitted, referencing the newfound confidence that comes with having reliable goaltending. "With both Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen performing at a high level, we have a chance every single night. There’s even more potential for them to grow as a tandem."
While Markstrom is expected to elevate his game further, Fitzgerald acknowledges that the team’s success is a collaborative effort.
The addition of veteran defensemen Brett Pesce, Brenden Dillon, and Johnathan Kovacevic has solidified the blue line. Coupled with a healthy Dougie Hamilton and the emergence of Luke Hughes, the Devils are playing a more defensively responsible system.
Fitzgerald praised the younger players for understanding the importance of team defense, emphasizing their commitment to playing sound hockey and preventing odd-man rushes rather than prioritizing offense.
“You can see the pride Luke is taking from defending with his legs and taking plays away,” Fitzgerald shared, acknowledging Hughes’s improved defensive awareness.
Coach Sheldon Keefe’s emphasis on defense has also played a crucial role in the team’s transformation
Looking ahead, Fitzgerald hinted that the Devils might seek a fourth-line center or a forward for their top nine to deepen their lineup, focusing on versatile players who excel at faceoffs, particularly defensive zone draws.
Meanwhile, the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers are facing unexpected challenges. They currently rank in the bottom third of the league in goals against per game, lacking the defensive prowess they showcased last season.
The departure of defensemen Brandon Montour and Oliver Ekman-Larsson has left a void on the blue line.
However, some believe that the Panthers’ relentless style, featuring high-energy shifts, might be difficult to sustain over a full 82-game season. Their root strength may lie in their explosive playoff capabilities.
Sources within the Panthers organization mention an intent to tweak their defensive roster before the March 7th trade deadline, even with limited cap space. They understand the need for creative solutions.
In Carolina, the recent signing of veteran goalie Dustin Tokarski doesn’t necessarily signal the end of their search for netminding improvements.
The Canes remain keen on exploring their options and could act if a compelling goalie becomes available.
With Frederik Andersen’s return from knee surgery still uncertain, there’s a possibility Carolina might seek an upgrade if Andersen’s game needs further refinement or if he doesn’t return to form.
Finally, Seattle Kraken goalie Joey Daccord could emerge as a potential option for Canada’s 4 Nations roster. Although his name might not appear on the initial roster announcement, he’s drawn attention from Hockey Canada.
Daccord, born and raised in Boston but with dual Canadian citizenship through his father, has yet to play for any national team.
The Kraken netminder boasts strong connections to both Canada and Switzerland (his mother’s homeland) and has been approached by both countries. He has yet to secure a Canadian passport, which is reportedly required for the 4 Nations.
However, due to his potential and Canada’s potential need in case of injuries, Daccord has kept the possibility open for a future call-up. Notably, representing Canada in the 4 Nations wouldn’t preclude him from playing for the United States or Switzerland in future IIHF events like the World Championships or Olympics.
