Can Lightning Strike Twice or Will Devils Bring the Storm to Tampa?
As the New Jersey Devils prepare to face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent performances. The Devils have shown a mix of resilience and firepower in their past games, which could be pivotal as they head into this challenging away game.
On January 7th, despite a valiant effort, the Devils fell short against the Vancouver Canucks with a scoreline of 4-6. They managed to net four goals on 25 shots, translating to a shooting percentage of 16 percent. Their goaltending was solid with an impressive save percentage of 100 percent, but it wasn't enough to secure victory.
The following day on January 6th saw a different outcome for NJ as they clinched victory over the Chicago Blackhawks with an identical shooting percentage but improved defensive play. The team's ability to block shots and capitalize on powerplays remained unfruitful; however, their even-strength performance was commendable.
Perhaps most notable was NJ's shorthanded strength demonstrated in their game against Washington Capitals on January 4th. Scoring six goals from just 28 shots showed an exceptional shooting accuracy of 21 percent. Their powerplay opportunities were limited but effective – scoring once out of two chances – and defensively they were robust with goaltending maintaining a save percentage of 100 percent.
The upcoming match poses several questions: Can NJ maintain its high shooting accuracy? Will they be able to exploit any weaknesses in TB's defense? And crucially, can they withstand TB's offensive onslaught at Amalie Arena?
Given these factors and considering that over half (57 percent) of faceoffs were won by NJ during their last shorthanded win suggests that if they can dominate possession and maintain discipline while capitalizing on scoring opportunities as before, there is every chance for them to emerge victorious.
Fans should mark their calendars for January 12th when these two teams clash at Amalie Arena in Tampa at midnight Eastern Time (ET). The game will be broadcasted nationally via ESPN+ online platform and regionally through BSSUN channel number 653 for home viewers or MSGSN channel number 635 for those cheering from New Jersey. Don't miss what promises to be an electrifying encounter between these fierce competitors!