In today's video, I go over a few of the Devils' recent goals against and point out the areas coach Ruff was very critical of when he spoke about the lack of detail recently in the Devils' defensive play, which ultimately cost them two points vs. Toronto Tuesday night.
VITEK IS NOT COVERING UP MISTAKES
I want to preface this by saying that Vitek Vanecek is having a phenomenal season for the Devils. He came in this season, got the job done, and clearly has solidified himself as the 1a goalie for the Devils. His 27 wins tie him for the 3rd most wins alongside Igor Shesterkin, Connor Hellebuyck, and Alexander Georgiev. In November, he was named the NHL's second Star of the Month, followed two months later with an exceptional month in January, going 8-0-0 with a .932 Sv% and 2.07 GAA. Phenomenal!
But, since then, when you look at February and March, Vitek's play has slipped noticeably. He has a below .900 Sv%, and his GAA has increased to 4.88 through his first three starts in March. And when you look at his last five games, he's 3-2-0 with a .821 SV% and a 4.26 GAA. This decrease in his performance stats indicates that he needs some rest, as his play is not trending in the right direction.
I do see this stretch of hockey for Vitek as him figuring out what being a bonified #1 goalie is all about. He is learning how to manage and handle the added pressure and reality that this team depends solely on him, as Mackenzie Blackwood has been in and out of the lineup due to injury all season. Yes, Akria has been serviceable and an excellent option; the fact is, Vitek needs a true 1b to help him mentally both on and off the ice. Hopefully, a few games off in the short term will help him (don't play tonight or Saturday in MTL), and Mackenzie will rejoin the team soon, perhaps after this weekend.
