What’s causing the Devils’ recent struggles?

While their place in the Metropolitan Division isn’t the worst thing, the results for the New Jersey Devils have been going…you know where.

Following a 2-1 loss to the Ottawa Senators on Sunday, the Devils have lost each of their last four games and four of their previous five, with two defeats coming in regulation. Granted, it isn’t like New Jersey is getting pounded by their opponents, with only one of their last eight games being decided by more than a goal.

Yet, it is leaving a sour taste in many fans’ mouths as the team is slipping further away from the top spot in the Metro. For a team that was an early favorite for a division crown, holding the best record in the Eastern Conference at one point, the recent losses bring fears of a growing trend with the trade deadline on the horizon.

Currently, the Devils are second in the Metro, nine points behind the Washington Capitals for first.

On Monday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, James Nichols of New Jersey Hockey Now joined the show to discuss what has gone wrong for New Jersey.

James Nichols: I wouldn’t say major concerns, but I think there are concerns nonetheless. You look at the depth scoring and it’s really been minimal. When the top six isn’t going well, the bottom six isn’t really providing the necessary support that it’s needed. You can go as far as saying it’s not coming from the blue line, either. Dougie Hamilton has barely been himself this year…Luke Hughes hasn’t necessarily taken that next step offensively. He’s been much better defensively.

Depth scoring overall has been a big issue for this team. Erik Haula hasn’t necessarily filled the net. Tomas Tatar hasn’t worked out the way that they had hoped…When Jack Hughes isn’t going, and Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier and Timo Meier, they’re not getting any goal support.

You can watch the full segment and entire episode here…