We're Talking About Practice
The Devils enjoyed an eight-day break from play and practice due to the bye week and All-Star break. The team was back on the ice Sunday and Monday prior to its first game since the break Tuesday night when the club hosts Colorado.
The players used the break to get away from hockey and refresh for the final two-and-a-half months remaining in the regular season.
“It's good to have a little break and get yourself going with two practices. We worked on a lot of stuff,” captain Nico Hischier said. “It can be good to not think about too much. Take a mental break. Let your body heal a little bit. You have time to think about what you want to change. Find the motivation (again), come back and feel fresh mentally and physically. It’s been a good break for me and from what I’ve heard for other guys too.”
“It’s always nice to get that bye week and All-Star break,” veteran forward Erik Haula said. “Whether you’re struggling or doing well, either way it’s good to get away and reset at some point. It’s a long year and a lot goes into it. I’m sure every team in the league enjoyed their time.”
The Devils first time on the ice was Sunday. Not surprisingly, their practice session Monday was much better.
“Yesterday was just shaking the rust off,” Haula said. “Anyone watching could tell it wasn’t as crisp, guys don’t feel that great. That’s pretty normal. That’s why it was nice that we have the luxury of two practices. I thought today was really solid. The pace was a lot better and our execution. It was a good sign.”
And the head coach agreed.
“I thought the intensity level was a lot better,” Ruff said. “The speed in practice was a lot crisper. Passing, I thought everything was better. After a week off, I thought we made some strides today.”
