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Thursday, November 24, 2011

New Jersey Devils By the Numbers

Since playing the Washington Capitals on 11/11/11, the New Jersey Devils have been outscored by there opponents 12-5 in the third periods. With the exception of the 11/11 game the Devils have not had more than 7 shots on goal in the third periods either. The Devils have been outshot in the 3rd periods 78-43. Before interjecting an opinion, these numbers favor the opponents. So what could be causing this third period slump? Fatigue? Penalties? The real answer is probably a little bit of a few things.

What I do notice is that the Devils have had 6 PKs to fend off in 3 consecutive games. In my opinion the team is taking too many penalties. It is absolutely great that the Devils PK is number 1 in the league, 32 for 33 since the 11/11 game. However, you can't keep playing with fire. The team has to be more disciplined. Having to kill so many penalties could be making some of the players tired by the time the third period comes around. Kovalchuk, Parise, Elias, Zubrus, Henrique are all getting a lot of ice time, but if it is to kill penalties this could simply make the players tired by the end of the game.

Overall, since 11/11 New Jersey is 4-3. Which isn't bad, however we could have been 5-2. I think this team has a lot of potential. I believe with Henrique, Clarkson, Zubrus all producing it really helps ease the pressure off of other players. Elias and Sykora seem to have been rejuvenated, which is obviously a great thing. This team has a great forecheck. In my opinion possibly one of the best in the league at this time. Currently, the top three goal scorers are Elias (8), Clarkson (7) and Zubrus (7).

A few places I think need improvement:

1. Power Play. I'm not the first to say this, nor am I the last. Since 11/11, the devils are 4 for 34. Some games we move the puck very well. I think we hesitate to take the shots though, looking for the perfect play. To me, it has always seemed that way with this team. I would like to see them fire more pucks on net during the PP.

2. Transition from Defense to Offense. Up to this point, we have turned over the puck in the neutral zone a good amount (had trouble finding numbers). Larsson has been pretty good with finding the right breakout pass. But overall I think this will help tighten up their game.

3. Discipline. We need to stay out of the box to give our players a chance to produce offensively. Spending more than half of a period in the box could be one of the reasons the team sits back late in the games.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Devils comfortable taking it to the shootout over Columbus

Devils now 5-1 in shootouts! Kovalchuck and Parise scored the first two in the shootout to help seal two points. It is a big deal for a team to pick up as many points outside of the conference as possible. Tonight's two were huge, as well as being a big bounce back after a disappointing loss in Florida. As a fan I started to worry when Columbus tied the game. I thought,  "I hope we don't start this trend of giving up leads and loosing."  However, it wasn't cause a lack of effort. Coumbus's goalie was the main reason the Devils weren't up by more than just one in the first period. A goalie is supposed to be your best PK person and Sanford was just that for the Bluejackets. There is an interesting stat that the Devils need to turn around. What is it you ask? Shots. Two games in a row the team struggled to put pucks on net in the third period. Tonight just 3 again like they did against Florida. Two games in a row the Devils came out strong, but they need to continue to play that way for a full 60.


Below is a Game Recap for those of you who missed it:


I have some good things I'd like to point out too, but I'll save that for a weekend recap. Adam Henrique is one! It's late I'm tired just watch the video. Happy Thanksgiving to all the fans.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

New Jersey Devils Forecheck gets it done!

Tonight's win was a solid team win. Almost every single Devil player got a shot on goal. The Devils only scored two on 41 shots. However, it was all they needed to push it to a shootout for the second game in a row. Also, for the second game in a row Kovalchuk and Parise delivered goals on the first two shooters on the shootout. Only tonight both players shot on their forehands to put the puck past Rinne.

Check out tonight's recap:


Check out Thursdays Shootout Goal by Parise:


It's still early in the season but there are a lot of good things happening on the ice for the New Jersey Devils. By no means have they played perfect yet, but getting 40 shots on goal in both of their last two games is something worth talking about. The forecheck tonight was a key point in Clarkson's goal. Tedenby and Fayne put the pressure on to keep the puck in the offensive zone. Tedenby was able to pull away from the Predators Defense making them think shot all the way. He was then able to dish the puck off to Clarkson, who slid the puck past Rinne halfway through the third. A big contributing factor was the production out of the blueliners. The Devils D tallied about 12 shots on goal and an assist on both Devils goals.

Fight at the right time. 
Cam Janssen does not produce that much but he knows how to get his team going. The Devils were already down 2-0. Cam picked a good time to have fight. It was at the 16 minute mark of the 1st period. It was early enough to have a big impact.  In the past the Devils would wait, and noone would pump up this team until it was too late. This time however came in the right spot because the Devils just continued to put pressure on the Predators from that point on. So say what you will about Cam, but his purpose was served in tonight's come from behind victory.

On a side note, after the game Kovalchuk mentioned in his post game interview that the team ate dinner together the night before. I know it sounds cheesy but I am glad to hear them talking openly about bonding. It will be an important part of this team and their chemistry come late in the season.

Let's continue this first win streak of the season when we take on the San Jose Sharks next Friday at Home at the Rock.

-thefansvoice

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Bloomberg Social Media Segment

I was interviewed for this segment, unfortunately part of my interview wasn't used but I'm still in the segment.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Future of the Devils: Keith Kinkaid


Union College is usually highlighted for basketball. However in recent years hockey has brought a lot of eyes on the town of Schenectady, NY. The past two ice hockey seasons have shown success as one of its stars is leaving Union College early to enter the NHLKeith Kinkaid, the 2011 Ken Dryden Award winning goalie, has been signed by the New Jersey Devils.
I had the opportunity to speak with Jeff Weinstein, the Assistant Sports Information Director for Hockey, about Keith and his time at Union.
Union College has a big commitment towards hockey and the coaches and staff do a great deal of scouting. They often find players that are overlooked, the best kept secrets in hockey. The dedication to scouting has paid off with Keith Kinkaid. He won the starting goaltending position halfway through his first season and started the ECAC Finals against Cornell all in his freshman year. In his sophomore year he lead Union to their first NCAA Division 1 appearance – which might have raised some eyebrows for the Devils. This was Union’s first appearance in the national tournament since making the move to Division 1 in 1991.
Keith’s road to success started a little later than some. A lot of players are looked at from a young age. It wasn’t until his year playing with the St. Louis Bandits in the North America Hockey League that he began to get some attention. That year’s hard work turned a lot of heads. While with St. Louis Bandits, Kinkaid had a GAA at 1.78 and a record of 30-5-4. He helped lead the Bandits to their third consecutive NAHL Championship. Keith posted a 10-2 record with a GAA of 1.12 in the playoffs. Union Hockey became interested in Keith and the scouts and organization were able to convince him to come join the Dutchmen where his success continued.
Talking with Jeff Weinstein, I was able to find out a little more about this young goaltender. Keith has a fun personality and is always smiling but is prepared and ready for those big games. I asked more about Keith’s style of play since many fans have yet to see Kinkaid in action. Kinkaid stays in position and does not give up a lot of rebounds. Keith’s style is more of a hybrid, not a stand up or a butterfly. As a Devils’ fan this makes me believe he has a similar style and approach to our own Martin Brodeur.
Since he was able to earn a spot and lead Union to a NCAA appearance within two years, lets see how quickly we see Keith at the NHL level.
Thanks again to Jeff Weinstein of Union College for the interview and insight into Keith Kinkaid.
Additional Information about Keith Kinkaid:
Devils Prospect Keith Kinkaid: Richard Chere/Star-Ledger
Prospect Profile: Tom Stivali/inlouwetrust.com

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Meeting Mark Fayne and Nick Palmieri

Meeting players is at the top of every fans to do list. The Devil’s players do many signings during the season and in the summer. This is great for the organization because it helps secure longtime fans and generate new ones. I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Fayne and Nick Palmieri this past Sunday at Miami Mike’s, in East Hanover, NJ. Miami Mike’s this season has supported the devils and have had multiple fan viewing party’s filled with raffles and prizes, even a guest appearance by Bruce Driver. This was in partnership with In the Game Collectible’s . (Holmdel, NJ)
It was a great turn out Sunday. Many fans came to meet and greet two of the Devils rising stars. A lot of fans brought jerseys, and photos to get signed. In the Game Collectible’s also offered a chance to have your picture taken with the players. Then the Nick and Mark would sign the picture. I thought that was a unique and cool experience. I was able to get one done myself.
Check out some of the pictures from this day here:
Fayne and Palmieri Pictures






When we here of more player signings or appearances we will be sure to spread the news. All fans should have the opportunity to meet the New Jersey Devils!

Saturday, March 26, 2011

We are PROUD!

I wish someone could actually tell this team that the fans are proud of them. No matter what; we all bound together and believe in this team, now and for the future. Maybe this seasons playoff shot is unrealistic, but the team should continue to play hard for the fans. We all hung in their and showed our support when everyone else had already counted the Devils out. We fans can't thank you enough for making this second half of the season exciting. Every game I was at was fun and exhilarating. It was fun watching this team, have fun! You have 7 games left, have fun. Not to mention we are excited about Parise's return. Play the remainder of the games for each other.

Play for your coach who came in and helped turn this team around. If we won the rest of the games Lemaire could still get coach of the year, why not play for that. Also 5 of the remaining 7 games are at home. Lets end the season showing other NHL teams that you do not want to come to the rock to play because these New Jersey Devils are a great team and hard to beat. Not to mention the fans are loud and love the New Jersey Devils!

-thefansvoice

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

NJ Devils viewing party at Miami Mikes

Miami Mikes have had three devils' viewing parties recently. The last one was March 6th, 2011 vs the New York Islanders. It was fun and exiting watching the game with other fans. Every close goal or hard hit made me feel like I was at the game when the crowd shouts ooo's and ahhh's. Miami Mikes also gave away prizes in a raffle of signed memorabilia to participating fans. The memorabilia was donated by Sports Express (Vic LunaticVic Cruz). Here are some pics and I will post video later of everyone celebrating Rolstons goal.

Twibbon. More support from the fans.

Fans continue to amaze as they create new ways of supporting the New Jersey Devils. Now fans created a twibbon, which is a new social media application that puts banners over your twitter image. Check it out, feel free to support the team too.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Devils use "Pens" to Continue writing history!

Last night was another great one at the Rock. The stands were packed and the fans were loud. It's a shame for anyone who could not have seen it in person. Next week will continue to be exciting. The playoff atmosphere will continue. Tuesday night the Devils will take on the Ottawa Senators at home.

New Jersey was able to kill off a penalty in the third which got the fans going. The crowd kept chanting Lets Go Devils!

The Devils were able to pull out another 2pts as Kovy knocked in another game winner. This time in overtime. We have a few videos of the excitement below. And if you missed the three stars its the second video below. I'm pretty sure you can hear Kovy say we will go all the way! Check it out and be sure to try and attend at least one of the home games next week. It is well worth it, Trust Me! We Believe!

Kovy's game winning goal!


Three Stars of the Game

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Kovalchuck Again

Devils bounced back after a 1-0 deficit to win over the Tampa Bay Lighting 2-1. Kovalchuck scored his 22nd of the season to make it 2-1. Henrik Tallinder scored the devils tying goal. The fans were loud and helped the devils surge. Check out the goal by kovalchuk, and then the celebration by the fans.



The fans celebrating kovy's goal.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Devils FANS BELIEVE

For everyone who think that devils fans are disillusioned about making the playoffs. We are not, we just believe in and support our team. New Jersey Fans have always had the persona of being fair weathered. This season shows that the Devils have a real fan base. The fans are as devoted as any others. We believe we have a great team and they are playing great hockey.

Earlier in the season everyone was saying how terrible this team was among many other things. Instead of the fan base breaking apart it grew closer.

New Jersey Devils are to come together, using their blogs, tweets and status updates to lead the way. There is a uniform voice beginning to develop among the faithful. One saying let's unite; let’s figure out a way to give our team back the advantage of home ice. The whole fan base wants the team to know that we are behind them, that “WE BELIEVE”. That we’ve seen them do it before and we believe they can do it again.

The team is listening. For example, fans pushed for and got a "fan section" at The Rock in order to jack the volume of "Let's go Devils" chants. Also, the team offered discounted seats for this section. The fact that the front office listens to Devil’s fans is great news for all fans.
Now, we acknowledge that some sections that have always been loud and/or insane... 214, 230-233 come to mind. The key is making the fans a part of something bigger. Whether chanting at The Rock or commenting on Facebook any fan who wants to be part of this team can make a difference.

And the fact is, the Devils fans are! Mission Control has launched and has rallied fans together at games and online. The players themselves have acknowledged how much louder and supportive the fans have been. After the 1-0 Win over the Rangers, Kovalchuck thanked the fans for their support this whole season. Other players, like Clarkson, have pointed to the stands during the games letting us know they hear us!

Despite this year’s bad start, the Devils deserve a strong fan base. Lou built one of the true dynasties in sports and we’ve been lucky to call that team ours for over a decade. We are not disillusioned we just BELIEVE in our team, and won’t give up. What is wrong with that?

So, fellow devoted Devils fans, let’s continue to stand together and stay engaged. If anyone has comments about the added section please post it. Any additional ideas can be shared here.

And don’t forget... Many other blogs exist as well where ideas fly... lets unite as a fan base and increase this fan awareness –making the Devils feel at home at The Rock.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Mooseheads!

For years, Devils niche fans have always been coming up with crazy signs or rituals to help get other fans excited. Well, last Friday night at the Devils vs. Rangers game a few “crazies” decided to do something again. Led by Ray Torella of the 233 crazies, fans have purchased moose hats in honor of how well Johan Hedberg is playing. Currently there are about 30 or so who will be wearing them. I’m sure more will join them as well.

This is what the New Jersey Devils Fans do; we stand behind our team. Thank you, crazies for enjoying the game and making the games fun.

Playoff Atmosphere Devils vs Rangers

Last Friday Night vs the New York Rangers the atmosphere was electric. We got to see the Rock filled with red. The place never slowed up, chanting Lets Go Devils! all night long. Kovalchuck has won over the fans and finally seems at home in NJ, as he scored another game winner. The Devils beat the Rangers Friday night 1-0 from Kovalchuck's breakaway goal. Check out his breakaway goal then check out the fans celebrating.



Now the reason you need to be at the games is to experience this atmosphere.



Just to note: Fischler interviewed Kovy after the game and he directly referenced the fans and all their support. The players enjoy seeing and hearing the fans excitement.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Devils Army Generals

Twenty-Five fans have been selected by the New Jersey Devils organization to participate in a first of it's kind fan based Mission Control (social media hub). The individuals selected have respectively earned their credibility and a following in the New Jersey Devils online world. Many of the new Generals are extremely active on twitter with fun and clever tweets game after game. Others have their own blogs such as http://speakingofthedevils.com/. The main point, the fans are now being heard. This is great for the Devils as the online voice is growing. It will help build a bigger fan base. This helps unite the fans, the devils staff and the players as really being Jersey's Team. We all share the same passion for one of the things we love, Devils Hockey. For all of us it also means being part of something bigger.

To keep all of you informed and be able to recognize others in the stands, we will feature all the generals soon so you get to know who they are. Below are some images from the orientation.






We now have ears available within the Devils organization. Feel free to be involved and share your ideas here or on the fans voice facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/thefansvoice) We will do our best to get your ideas heard as well.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Devils Strong Defense Last 7

Over the past few weeks there a lot of great things the devils are doing. Today the
Devils won their 4th straight for the first time this season. They have earned 13 of 14 possible points over this 7 game stretch. There are way to many things the devils are doing right to mention so here it is by the numbers!

28 goals for, 14 goals against
3+ goals in 5 of last 7.
4+ goals 4 of 6 last 6.

Rolston 3 Goals 6 Assists
Elias 5 goals 4 Assist over last 7 games.
Greene 5 Assist last 6 games.
Kovalchuck 4 goals 4 assists over last 7.
Clarkson 3 goals last 7.
Brodeur 5-0-1 last 6.

Daneyko stated after the game he feels it all starts with the defense. I agree! Starting Hedberg against Philadelphia shows the work ethic of the entire team. Didn't just rely on Marty, but the defense had to step up and play the same. They were strong on the puck and made great breakout passes. A big factor is the offense stepping up and helping back out on defense. Many players with great backchecking, including Kovalchuk who in my mind is winning over the hearts of many fans.

Under Lemaire, Kovalchuck seems to be playing a much better team game. His unlikely style goal today with a re-direct from point shot by greene shows how his play has matured. HE is laying off the puck a little and allowing his teammates to carry it into the zone and force the defense back. This has helped him watch the play unfold and against tampa, scored on a loose puck in front of the net.

Lemaire has brought the confidence back in this team, which now is showing it can be a great team.

For fans, it's great to see their style of play back as well as a winning streak. Keep it up devils. It's also fun when more people are in the arena cheering with you!

Game recap below


-thefansvoice

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Devils Young Guns and the future.

There has been many things said about Mattias Tedenby recently as he was +2 with a goal and an assist in his return to the lineup. (Highlight of his goal below) This came against the Islanders on Monday (Martin Luther King Day)matinee. For the six games he was scratched from the lineup many were already questions Jacques Lemaires decision to not play Tedenby. We should all have a little more faith as Tedenby worked hard in practices to make it back to the lineup and it paid off. Fans should be excited at watching a young talent like this develop. His goal against the islanders is one for the highlight real as it show cased his speed, puck control and shooting ability. (shown below)



The Fans should also keep an eye out for Zharkov as he finally netted his first nhl goal against the islanders as well. This was his first goal out of 11 shots this season and a total of 54 shots since entering the nhl. I predict he will break out with a few more goals over the next few games. Zharkov has played 9 games this season and has shown great improvement under Lemaire.
(see his goal below)



Lastly lets take a look at Palmieri who has been calling Travis Zajac and Kovalchuk his linemates pretty much the entire time he has been called up from Albany. Nick Palmieri has shown he can score and make great passes for zajac and Kovy. He sees the ice real well. He is composed and quick to make the correct decisions on the ice. Below is his 2nd NHL goal that came against the panthers on the 15th of January. His first nhl goal was a empty netter.



The young players that are developing in the minor league system show great promise for years to come. Even with a record that isn't so great, watching these young guns is exciting. Lamoreillo has always put together a great scouting team that has found some great players.

(also note that I didnt talk about taromina who is likely to be out the rest of the season or Josefson who is in albany currently. Also great young players)

-the Fans Voice