In their first postseason game since June 2012, the New Jersey Devils lost Game 1 to the Tampa Bay Lightning, 2-5. Much was learned about this game. But the main lesson for the Devils to learn from that loss is this: Head coach John Hynes needs to play the best Devils players in the playoffs. Namely, Damon Severson. The biggest absence from Game 1 was defenseman Damon Severson. He was a healthy scratch as Mirco Mueller faltered alongside John Moore in Tampa Bay. This post intends to show why that decision was dubious while pointing out that Severson needs to be involved in Game 2.
Game 1 Lesson: John Hynes Needs to Play Damon Severson in the Playoffs
