In their second game of the Prospects Challenge, the New Jersey Devils didn’t have the same last-minute heroics from their first game on Friday night. There were, however, some standout performances from two players who are trying to make an impression on the Devils management and coaching staff who have had watchful eyes over the group over the last few days.
Garrett Van Wyhe had a two-goal performance, both goals assisted by Noah Corson.
Utica Comets head coach Kevin Dineen referenced sloppy play from his group, which he felt against Montreal they were able to overcome after their first period on Friday night, but fell into too big a hole against the Sabres.
Video: Comeback Quelled at Buffalo | POST-GAME
“There’s no sugar coating that one,” Dineen said after the game. “That wasn’t a very good performance by us. We had higher expectations. We were a little sloppy last night, and really thought our execution would be better.”
The Devils are now 1-1 after tonight’s 7-4 loss to Buffalo.
Here are some observations from the game…
- Simon Nemec looked more comfortable in his second game with New Jersey, rarely buckling under pressure when there were breakdowns in plays. He skated with poise defending against a 3-on-1, and when he was out on the power play you could see the chemistry beginning to develop between Nemec and Alexander Holtz. Although Holtz didn’t score on the power play, Nemec would set him up time and time again to rifle the shots toward the net.
- It was a big moment for recently drafted Josh Filmon who scored his first goal of the tournament, always a big moment for a young player trying to make an impression. After the game, Filmon pointed to really taking this opportunity to start showing the organization what makes him the player he is and “I want to do whatever it takes to earn an NHL spot one day. That’s the goal.”
“It’s been great, nothing but outstanding things to say about the organization,” Filmon said after the game. “The learning experience has been awesome, getting to play in live game action against players who have played in the NHL, it’s teaching me firsthand what it takes to get to the next level.”
- Kevin Bahl has quietly been putting together a very solid tournament, assisting on a goal again tonight, Bahl has three points through the first two games of the tournament. He’s been counted on to be a calming presence on the blue line, as one of the older players and more experienced players at camp. In the last couple of games, he’s even had an opportunity to play on the power play.
“The size and the ability to squelch a lot of plays is a real strength of his,” Dineen said, “We’re always looking for that on the defensive side. I think he always realizes that’s not his path to the NHL being an offensive stalwart, but when he plays solid defensively, it’s a real benefit to our team.”
- Van Wyhe certainly has an edge to his game. He was noticeable every time he was out on the ice and has that feisty edge to him with a big grin whenever an opponent draws near. He’s certainly a player that looks like he could get under just about anyone’s skin.
“I think every game here is going to be a little feisty,” he said after the game, “everyone has that grit and mentality that they want to make the NHL team. I’m just doing my part that I can help and contribute.” to the Devils organization, and moving forward, it’s a dream, it’s an honor to be here, representing not just my family by the organization as well.”