A decent game for Blackwood, made the stops he had to make, misplayed the first goal a bit, looked rusty at times which is expected coming off of something nagging, but overall otherwise a nice first game back. The confidence is just there right now from a fans perspective that when shots are getting poured on Blackwood or opponents are getting good opportunities on him, you don't have to worry or take a deep breath as often about the puck going in which is something that we haven't been able to feel for well over a year.
As far as the power play goes, not much needs to be said, the numbers speak for themselves and visually, they are allowing other teams to walk all over them, keeping them on the perimeter of the offensive zone which leaves the units stuck against the boards and blue line. We are up a player and are getting taken control of rather than taking control of the play and creating some chaos between the dots and up the middle. An opposing coaching staff preparing their team to play NJ, going over the tape of how NJ sets up its power play unit and its tendencies, must love only having to convey applying as much pressure as you need to and it will throw them off their game.
The play last goal was despicable as well, it's no wonder both teams are at the bottom of the league. Players coasting around and us making a line change with a handful of seconds left. Sports 101, play until the buzzer goes off or at the very least have control of the play if you want to slow it down. What happened there cannot happen.
