Devils' 7-2 Win vs. Sabres: Utter Domination

The New Jersey Devils got ahead early and didn't look back in a dominant and much-needed 7-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres

To say the New Jersey Devils needed that one would be an understatement. They made no mistake about it, either, as they defeated the Buffalo Sabres in dominating fashion with a 7-2 win. Here are three takeaways as they look to build on the victory and get back into the playoff picture. 

Hischier Made It Known He's Back

Nico Hischier made his return to the lineup after missing 11 games with an injury, and the Devils sure felt his impact. He scored a goal to make it 3-0 in the first period and added an assist, but there was so much more about his game that made a difference for the Devils. 

For example, Hischier's goal began with him forcing a turnover in the neutral zone and springing the puck loose to Jesper Bratt. That started an odd-man rush and left the Sabres out of sorts. Bratt fed Ondrej Palát the puck with a cross-ice pass, and though Palát partially fanned on the shot, Hischier made sure it found the back of the net. 

Hischier's defensive acumen was on display throughout the game, too. Late in the second period, he intercepted a Sabres pass in the defensive zone when the Sabres were trying to establish possession on the attack. 

Even when the game was out of reach in the third period, Hischier was still playing his game defensively. He was skating back and was in perfect position to intercept a cross-ice pass from the Sabres in the defensive zone. Had he not, it would've likely resulted in a quality scoring chance. 

Hischier's return also made a significant difference for other players. For example, Michael McLeod was back in the bottom-six and centered the third line with Erik Haula and Alex Holtz. Dawson Mercer was back on the wing and totaled a goal and assist. He's always looked more comfortable on the wing, so perhaps this gets him going. 

Of course, it was just one game. The Devils need to play like this more consistently, but having Hischier should help them return closer to themselves. 

Holtz's Great Night