Opinion
3 min read

Can the New Jersey Devils Outmaneuver the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena?

As the New Jersey Devils prepare to face off against the Arizona Coyotes, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a recent string of performances that have left much to be desired. The upcoming clash at Mullett Arena on March 16th promises to be an intriguing encounter, with both teams looking to assert dominance on the ice.


Oct 13, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils goaltender Akira Schmid (40) makes a save on Arizona Coyotes center Logan Cooley (92) during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

The Devils' recent game on March 3rd against the Los Angeles Kings was a tough pill to swallow. Despite putting up 31 shots and landing 23 hits, they only managed one goal and were outplayed in almost every statistical category. Their powerplay opportunities yielded no goals from two attempts, and their penalty kill allowed one goal from four shorthanded situations. The goaltending was less than stellar as well, with a save percentage of just 78 percent.


In stark contrast stands their performance on February 28th against the San Jose Sharks where they displayed an offensive masterclass by netting seven goals from 44 shots – an impressive shooting percentage of 16 percent. Their defense was equally formidable, allowing only two goals and boasting a save percentage of perfect standing.


Oct 13, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Arizona Coyotes center Logan Cooley (92) takes his rookie lap before the start of his first NHL game against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not all doom and gloom for NJ as they showed signs of resilience in their game against Anaheim Ducks on March 2nd. Despite losing with four points conceded compared to three scored by NJ, there were positives to take away – particularly their powerplay which converted two out of four opportunities into goals.


The Coyotes should not be underestimated though; while they may not have the same firepower as some other teams in the league, they are capable of exploiting any lapses in concentration or discipline that NJ might exhibit.


Oct 13, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Arizona Coyotes goaltender Karel Vejmelka (70) defends his net against New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier (13) during the second period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

For NJD fans hoping for victory in Tempe, it will be crucial for their team to replicate more closely their form shown against San Jose rather than that displayed versus Los Angeles or Anaheim. They'll need strong goaltending performance coupled with clinical finishing if they're going to come away with two points this time around.


Looking ahead at what's sure to be a thrilling contest between these two teams: Will NJD find consistency in both offense and defense? Can they capitalize on powerplays while also shutting down ARI's advances? These questions will loom large over Mullett Arena come game night.


Devils enthusiasts can catch all the action live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or tune into MSGSN or SCRIPPS networks for television coverage when puck drops at Mullett Arena at precisely 5:00 PM local time (9:00 PM ET) this coming Friday night.

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