22 games into the season, the Devils have the same number of points they had 22 games into last season

The Devils have played 22 games and have 25 points, the precisely same number of points they had 22 games into last season. They were 12-9-1 last year and are 10-7-5 this.

Perhaps the most stunning difference at the 22-game mark is that last year, the Devils were 6-1 in OT and have just won one game in OT/shootout this year.

And despite their recent poor play, they're still only five points away from the top of the Atlantic Division.

On the other hand, they're just a few points away from being out of the playoffs.

These numbers underscore the incredible importance of winning every game in this shortened season. Just a few points could — and likely will — separate the division winners from teams that finish in 9th or below and out of the playoffs.

Kovy celebrates, and the standings look nice

For some reason, I've always enjoyed Kovy's goal celebrations (like tonight's after he scored in OT to beat Washington). He breaks into being a kid. Oh, and the standings — yeah, it's early — but they do look rather smart these days.