Veteran Defenseman's Physical Presence Will Positively Impact Devils
New Jersey Devils defenseman Brenden Dillon explains that hitting is a skill that players need to continuously work on, like shooting and passing.
Oct 14, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets defenseman Brenden Dillon (5) checks Florida Panthers forward Ryan Lomberg (94) during the third period at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports - Veteran Defenseman's Physical Presence Will Positively Impact DevilsIt only took two games, but New Jersey Devils fans already know what to expect from veteran defenseman Brenden Dillon.
He uses his hulking 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame to block shots and increase the team's overall physical presence on the ice, including open-ice hits and dropping the gloves.
And that is not going away anytime soon.
When it comes to delivering a clean hit, Dillon knows that the hitter has to focus on keeping their elbows down and not targeting the head.
He explains that hitting is a skill that a player needs to work on, like stick handling, shooting, and passing. Repetition is key.
"It is all about timing and kind of trusting your gaps," he said.
Fans see missed-time hits every season. Last October, Buffalo Sabres defenseman Connor Clifton was suspended for two games for an illegal check to the head against Nico Hischier.
As the hitter, he took full responsibility.
"Obviously, there was head contact, which I didn't intend to do," Clifton said at the time. "It's a fast game. I watched it 100 times. Obviously, I wish I took a different approach. I kind of thought he was going to catch it and carry it in."
When executed correctly, a big hit can have fans on their feet and can rejuvenate the players on the bench.
It is what Dillon is hoping to continue to bring to the team.
"I think it is something that could impact the game, whether it is emotionally on a back-to-back and getting a little bit of life or just getting everybody feeling engaged in the game," Dillon said. "I know when I am on the bench, and one of my teammates has a big hit or a big blocked shot, it gets me up.
"It gets (players) off the bench, cheering, hooting, and hollering. Whether you were super tired or feeling a little under the weather, you suddenly got a little bit of extra juice."
In the past, Devils players have spoken about having low energy on the bench during games and it not always being consistent. Having the presence of Dillon, who is not afraid to block a shot or make a big hit, will positively impact the team and fill a void that sometimes has been missing.
"It is something that's part of my game. Always has been, and always will be."
Every player on the team has a specific role, and Dillon is already coming as advertised with four hits, six blocked shots, and one fight.
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