My quick hits after the first two days of training camp:
HC Sheldon Keefe isn't hiding the line experiments he is trying in training camp. After both skates, he said, “If we were playing for real tomorrow, that's how that's how it would look.” Granted, each day is a new day, but I love the fact that he is using every minute of ice time in camp to see what NHL chemistry is or is not there with the players. Yes, it’s not ideal if you are a young kid trying to crack the lineup out of camp, but time is precious this year, with Prague just around the corner.
#5 and #7 look to be the Devils’ top D pairing, at least initially. Building on my point above, HC Keefe said he wanted to see what this pairing could do, and I agree with his thinking that Dillon’s style of play can complement Dougie’s game quite well. A veteran, mobile, vocal stay-at-home D is a perfect partner for your most offensive D man.
First scrimmage: it was low-event hockey. There was a low volume of shots, and only two total goals were scored (minus the shootout goals). If this scrimmage is any indication of what’s to come, then Fitzy’s offseason moves should hopefully fix the glaring issues from last season that he sought to address: inconsistent goaltending and loose defensive coverage.
Yes, Jack was playing center and taking faceoffs! I had a big question mark surrounding how strong and rehabbed his shoulder would be right from the start of camp. So, it was fantastic to see him starting in his natural center position, taking draws, and showing everybody that he’s back in full form by putting on a show with his two shootout goals.
Tomorrow is special teams day, focusing on the PP side of things. I’m interested to see how the two units look coming out of the gate.
And yes, The Dawg is back in the house, too!!!
-Sal
