[Caged Great]

They needed to build themselves a cushion to close out this month. Two of the four opponents they play in January are easier (Buffalo/Edmonton) and two are good (Anaheim/Minnesota).

They need to get 5 or 6 points out of that.

Next Month they play

Jets (T-8th)
Sharks (T-14th)
Penguins (T-8th)
Sharks (T-14th)
Kings (17th)
Canucks (13th)
Bruins (T-14th)
Wild (22nd)
Ducks (1st)
Rangers (11th)
Devils (26th)
Islanders (3rd)

Out of all those games, only the Devils game is easier, even the Wild game is a tough one because they are a good team. It's a month from hell. If they even win half of that month they'll be a prime position to charge for a playoff spot. Having as many points in the bank as possible before dry period occurs will be helpful. (March and April are push overs in comparison competition wise)