Jersey's Devilish Pride

With Shanahan on his way, Rupp or Clarkson could be on way.. out.

Brendan Shanahan could no doubt fill a void that the Devils truly need, which is more depth and explosiveness on the power play.  If the 40 year old winger can provide that (and his career resume clearly shows he's capable), there just isn't room for one of two players.  Two players that have stood up for the stars of the team, such as Zach Parise and Patrik Elias, countless times.  Two players that have the edge and intensity which last years Devils' lacked, which is a big reason why they fell to the more focused and pumped Rangers in a 5 game stomping. 

David Clarkson and Mike Rupp.

The other night, when looking over the Devils roster and realizing that there was not one clear cut player that would be out, I did "the math" by subject of elimination.  It obviously wouldn't be Gionta, Elias, Parise, Zubrus, or Zajac.  Langenbrunner and Holik, same thing.  Madden and Pandolfo have been inconsistent this season, but they are such a big presence in the locker room, there is no way they are being benched.  I almost forgot Brian Rolston, and he's not going anywhere either.  That leaves Clarkson and Rupp.

Now which one of the two do you snub?  Of course, neither one of the two are exactly marquis players, but they each serve a unique purpose and do the small things that get the Devils two points night in and night out. 

David Clarkson- He brings raw emotion.  He gets sparks flying.  He knows how to tick the other team off, and he's great at getting a game a little more physical.  Unlike Rupp, Clarkson has a scoring touch.  Along with Clarkson's knack for stirring things up, he's on pace to be good for 15 goals this season.

Mike Rupp- He's BIG.  One of the biggest men in the NHL at 6'5 (remember, even bigger on skates).  He's made fighting opponents suffer countless times, such as:

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Ouch. 

Anyway, there's no one else on the Devils with the snarl and size of Mike Rupp.  This is what Clarkson lacks, for if a big man like Laraque or Chara goes after Parise or Elias, he doesn't exactly have the size to compete.

So what's the verdict?  If I'm Brent Sutter or Lou (I'm not sure who's gonna make the call on this one), I have to keep David Clarkson.  There's not many players out there that can stir things up like Clarkson, and score double digit goals while doing so.  Mike Rupp is big and an enforcer, but there are players like Bobby Holik and Bryce Salvador t

First day of second half!

With the Devils breakthrough 5-1 win last night in LA, the Devils officially finished off their first half of the season.  Today, the Devils will begin the 2nd half of their 08-09 campaign in Anaheim as they take on the Ducks.

The Atlantic Division currently stands as such:
Flyers: 23-10-9 55 Pts
Rangers: 25-15-4 54 Pts
Devils: 24-14-3 51 Pts

After tonight's game, the Devils will draw even with the Flyers in games played, and only 2 in hand over rival New York.  The Devils will play 5 straight road games to begin the second half, not coming home to New Jersey until next Wednesday to take on Montreal. 

Devils last big game of first half, the biggest of all so far

Tonight the Devils will host the lowly Atlanta Thrashers, a great opponent on paper when you are in drastic need of a victory.

As the standings show now, the Devils are 2 points behind the Flyers and Rangers for first in the division.  The Rangers are idle tonight, while the Flyers host the Wild.  If the Wild can pull off a victory in Philly, and the Devils win tonight at home against the Thrashers, the Devils will be in first place.  All 3 of the Devils, Flyers, and Rangers will have 53 points, but the Devils will have won more games (24) in less games (40), than the Flyers (21 in 41), and the Rangers (24 in 42). 

The Thrashers are not a good team, and in a game as big as this one, the Devils should come out flying and trample them.  The only worry on our minds should be that of whether or not Minnesota can pull off an upset for us. 

Fear of Devils' coldest stretch of season?

January is one of the coldest months of the year temperature wise.  Could it's frigid temperatures possibly slow the Devils down?

Of course, the temperatures won't really have a factor.  But the schedule certainly will.  The Devils have 12 remaining games in the month of January, nine of which are on the road.  And the trips will not be easy.  After flying home for the game on Thursday against Atlanta, the Devils fly to California, then Vancouver, then Ohio, then back to New York to take on the Islanders.  Then they fly down to Tennessee, and back up here. 

The gross amount of road games is eerily similar to the nine game road trip the Devils started off their season last year, in which they went 3-5-1.  These kinds of road swings have been known to slow the hottest of teams down.  On the bright side, Philadelphia has been quite successful on their trip, going 2-2 on a similar trip to which the Devils are about to take, through Columbus, Anaheim, LA, and Vancouver.

The Devils second half officially begins Sunday, in which the standings are looked at more vitally as each day passes.  Part of the focus will shift from the division to conference rankings, especially if the Devils find themselves more entrenched in that than the top of the division.  It's a little unsettling to know that when the serious part of the season is coming up, the Devils are going to be in the midst of their hardest stretch of the season.

But hey, if they can make it through this, they can make it through anything. 

Devils victorious in front of sold out crowd last night; First look at Brick City Bar & Grill

The Devils won their 3rd in 4th as they defeated the Canadiens 4-1 in front of a packed Prudential Center. 

-I got there at 3, and barely got $10 seats.  With everyone back from school, this was a very in demand game.

-There were a lot of Canadiens fans last night, which is probably why it was a sell out.  It was easily 70/30, with us having the majority.  But 30 percent Habs fans is a lot.

-Clemmensen made 33 saves, further cementing his status as our #1 goaltender.  He is becoming a very very very important part of our team. 

-Parise, Madden, Gionta, and Langenbrunner all scored for the Devs.  It's Madden's first goal since October the 22nd.

-The Devils are now only 2 points behind the Rangers and Flyers for first, with 2 games in hand.  That will become 3 after tonight, when the Rangers play in Washington and the Flyers visit LA.

BRICK CITY BAR & GRILL

It just opened up yesterday, so me and the couple friends I was with decided to check it out.  For those of you who don't know, the Brick City Bar & Grill is a restaurant that opened up right across the street from the Devils Den.  It's been under construction for a while, so it was long awaited by many. 

The Good:

-It's a beautiful interior.  It's definitely somewhere I'd feel comfortable going before or after a game. 

-The bartenders/waitresses/hostesses: Yowza.

-The prices are reasonable. 

The Bad:

- The service was lousy.  We were told after ordering sodas at the bar since we were under 21 (I was with a girl of 18, a guy of 20, and I'm 19 myself) we were not allowed to sit at the bar, but more than welcome to sit at one of the bar tables.  That's fine.  We get our drinks, and my friend ordered a French Onion soup that took no joke, about 20 minutes to come out.  French Onion soup takes about 5-8 minutes tops.  He had to walk up to the bar and remind the bartender about his order, and then it took about 10 minutes after that.  So maybe she just forgot, OK.  Then, there's no service to our tables.  From where the staff was hovering, it seemed to me like no one was responsible for the tables around the bar.  So I put my order of food in to a bartender.  Apparently, you need to walk up to the bar and order your food/drinks and they bring it to your table, you aren't waited on.  And that kinda sucks in a way. 

-The portions were small.  I ordered potato skins ($7), and I got THREE.  At Friday's, you pay 8 and get 10 potato skins.  Don't get me wrong, they were good, and relatively large.  But there was absolutely no portion whatsoever.  But luckily, my friend's French Onion soup was quite big.

I'll be going back however, to take pictures and see if they work out their first day kinks. 

Devils beat Rangers at MSG for once; Second half of season only 2 weeks away

Well, the Devils showed that two weeks ago was not a fluke, as they doubled up the Rangers 4-2 for their second straight win over the Rangers. 

-The Devils stuck out their special teams' chest in the first, scoring on the power play with a slapshot from Brian Rolston, and took advantage of the Rangers' atrocity of a power play, scoring shorthanded with Patrik Elias.

-The Rangers have given up 13 shorthanded goals this season.  They've actually given up more goals than they have scored. 

-The Devils move to just 4 points behind the first place New York Rangers, with 4 games in hand.  The Flyers and the Devils are the top 2 teams in this division, IMO.

-To say Clemmensen was stellar would be an understatement.  He has been so huge for the Devils these past two months, I hope he can keep it up and keep the Devils in it.  Near the end of the 2nd period, he made a couple of outstanding pad saves to keep the 3-1 lead in tact going into intermission. 

-The Devils don't have another important game until Friday at home against Montreal.  The next two are a short western trip, against two last place teams. 

Second half just Two Weeks away

-The second half of the Devils' season begins January 11 (I remember so well because it is my dad's birthday!)  Anyway, will the Devils find themselves still looking at the division seed, or looking more towards a conference seed?

-The Devils don't have that friendly a schedule coming up.  Two games on the west, then two always tough teams at home in Montreal and Ottawa.  On the road against Carolina will be tough, as will the WC game against the Kings, the last one of the Devils' first half.

-I think on the morning of Jan. 11, the Devils will be looking more towards the 4th seed than the division.  Unless the Devils surprise, which I'm sure hoping they do. 

 

My (mis)adventures during today's Flyers-Devils game

Let's start with a time line, beginning Saturday night:

11:30 PM- Agree with my friend Roger to go early and grab $10 seats, plan to meet at my work place at 9:30 to meet and drive down.

Midnight: Notice that snow is in the forecast, whatever, no biggie.  We can man it up and drive down.

8:30 AM- Alarm goes off.  Snooze.

8:40 AM- Alarm goes off again.  Check phone, text from Roger saying that there's no way his car will make it the trip it takes to get to my work, or even my house.  We call off going to the game.  I'm fine with it, as I am exhausted.  I can just as easily enjoy the game from my house.

12:30 PM- Finally wake up.  Getting ready to order food and watch the game, when I am forced to go outside and shovel snow.

1:05 PM- Finish shoveling, and the game has just started.  Now I can relax and watch my Devs kick some ass.

1:06 PM- Time to clean the house for company on Christmas.  CRAP.

2:20ish PM- Devils up 2-0, I celebrate by pumping my hand full of dusting cloths in the air and back down several times. 

2:45 PM- Cleaning the house is over, NOW I can relax and watch the game.  What's this?  NONE of my local sports channels (SNY, MSG, MSG+, YES) are working? 

2:50 PM- Check website to see if sports channels are now on some kind of premium service that my dad refused to pay for.  Can't see it, oh well. 

3:20 PM- After trying to get the channels back, I settle on just listening to the game on the radio.  I turn it on, and it's 2-2 with 4 minutes left.  CRAP AGAIN.

3:35 PM- Game goes to shootout.  As the only act of good fortune that happened today (besides the Devils win), the channel magically comes back to life just seconds before the shootout begins. 

3:43 PM- ZAJAC!!! DEVILS WIN!  I celebrate by pumping my fist (minus the dusting cloths) in the air and letting out a barbaric scream.

I hate the snow, I hate cleaning the house, and I hate my cable company.  BUT GO DEVILS!

Getting to the game tonight

I have tickets to the game tonight, and I plan on leaving in about four hours.  This is my story!

UPDATE (1:27 PM)- It's still snowing, not hard though.  The radar says it may switch to rain around 4 PM, which will make it more drivable.  That said, we still plan on using my friend's Jeep!

UPDATE 2 (1:55 PM)- To avoid the hell-ish experience of driving, we're contemplating taking the train down.  Problem is, if we miss the 10:22 train (which is about 50/50) we're stuck.  I hate snow!

UPDATE 3 (4:27 PM)- Thanks to the awesome work of the NJ roads + transportation department, it's 4:30 and not one single plow has gone by my house, so I'm literally snowed in.  Unless something changes, I can't get out of my driveway, and I can't go to the game.  Beat.

So, Who's the Team to Beat in the Atlantic?

Being a Mets fan, I hear a lot of "the team to beat" talk between the Mets and the Phillies.  Which got me thinking, which team in the Atlantic division is the team to beat?

Who do you think?
My choice is the.. Philadelphia Flyers.

Ugh.  I hate saying that.  I hate the city of Philadelphia.  The people are rude, and when the teams are good they are unbearably cocky.  But here's why I have to give them some respect:

-Since starting the season 0-6, they are 17-8.  They have been on fire ever since they got their first win against, guess who? The Devils.

-6 players in double digit goal totals, 3 players with 30 or more points, and 6 with 20 or more points.  They are an offensive powerhouse, maybe the best in the whole Eastern Conference.  They can score like a MF'er. 

-In comparison, the Devils only have 2 players with more than 10 goals, 2 players with 30 or more points, and 5 with more than 20.  Point wise, the Devils are close.  But goal wise, there is no comparison.  The Flyers have scored 107 goals, while the Devils have scored 91.  At the same time, the Flyers power play is out of this world, scoring more than a fourth of the time at 26.6%.  Meanwhile, the Devils struggle like always, with only 14.9 percent. 

What about the current first place team, the Rangers?

Well, the Rangers are in first place, and good for them.  But they've also played what, like a million more games than anyone else?  OK, so it's actually only six more than the Devils, and no less than four against anyone else in the division.  That almost gives them the lead by default, though.  There are plenty of reasons why the Rangers can win the division:

1. The shootout.  If I were head coach Tom Renney, I would be playing for the shootout in every single close game.  With Lundqvist in net (as much as I do criticize him because I think he's a cheater with his pads, he is an outstanding shootout goaltender.), it's almost a lock.

2. Mental advantage.  They have every team chasing them, and whether or not they really deserve to be in first place, they are.  That has to give them some confidence, which they have showed with back to back wins on the West Coast.

Same thing said, there are some reasons why the Rangers can not win:

1. Defense.  I don't watch many Rangers games due to I get motion sickness, but one of my friends who is a Rangers fan says that the defense "collapses on plays".  Well, that's not good.  It might explain how the Rangers have only scored 3 more goals than they have allowed this season, while the Devils have scored 12 more.  Put simply, their defense is mediocre at best.

2. Underacheiving.  The Rangers put a lot of money into this team, and they have been playing well.  But with the talent on this team and the money spent, they should downright be DOMINATING.  But they're not.  They're not even first in the conference, and if it wasn't for all the games they've played, they wouldn't even be first in the division.  Once that division lead slips away from them (and it will), the papers will talk, and it will get in the Rangers heads.

Can't forget Pittsburgh, the defending division champs, right?

Yeah, Pittsburgh is a tough team.  They have Crosby and Malkin and.. oh, wait.

That's all they have.  You neutralize those two, you neutralize the Penguins, and game over.  The Penguins are not a big threat if you can put Crosby and Malkin to sleep. They have been very mediocre this season. 

That said, what are the Devils chances at a division title?

Well, this is tough.  If the Devils can't man up and start beating the Rangers, the shot is very small.  It's hard to be better than a team that you can't beat.  The Devils have shown they can beat the Flyers, but the Flyers are very capable at the same time. 

If Brodeur comes back with around 20 games to go well rested, the Devils need to aim for around 14-6 or 15-5 during that time.  That would be an awesome run to end the season, and the Devils chances for winning the division would be great.  102 points won the division last season.  It might take more this time. 

Big news on the site

I greatly apologize for the lack of posts on the site lately, which has been due to a few reasons:

-1. Not that many people besides myself and a few family members read it, which leads to me not desiring as much to keep writing if no one's listening.

-2. Finals at school, and working a lot.

-3. Realizing that I am never going to get any professional recognition with a "Weebly" address. 

That said, it's my "Early New Year's resolution" to revamp the site.  Which includes:

-1. Promoting the site.  If you read it and you like it, show your fellow Devils fans.  I'm going to post links to it on different Devils sites that I visit, as I'm sure that will help. The more people that read it, the more popular it gets. 

2.  School's over, so I figure if I have time to start regularly updating and writing, it's now.

3.  Starting January 1st, I will be an ACTUAL website, not just a connection of another one.  From what I hear, jerseydevilpride.com may be open.  My friend makes websites, and I am going to see if he can help me out.  On the 1st, I'm going to post a link for the new site on here. 

Game Preview: 12/17/08 Devils @ Buffalo Sabres

The Devils, after being one of the hottest teams in the league the past few weeks, have hit a roadblock 2 game losing streak.  And it won't get any easier tonight in Buffalo to take on the Sabres, whom the Devils are 0-2 AT HOME against this season.  Like it'll get any easier on the road. 

-The Devils have just not been able to beat the Sabres this season, and tonight they are in Buffalo.  If I were ever to bet AGAINST my team....

-Anyway, Ryan Miller will almost certainly get the start tonight for Buffalo, as will Scott Clemmensen for your New Jersey Devils. 

-Word is Andy Greene will be back any day now.  The injury bug has slowly but surely gone away, as our only big player still lost to injury is #30.

-Only other divisional team in action is the division leading Rangers, who are in LA to face the Kings. 

Game Recap: Devils 2- Maple Leafs 3 (In Shootout)

The Devils lost their second straight as the Maple Leafs defeated the Devils again, via a 3-2 shootout win thanks to a crazy goal by Jason Blake.

-The Devils got a quick lead with a goal by Mike Rupp. 

-The Maple Leafs answered with 2 in the second, one from Antropov and the other from Jeremy Williams to give them a 2-1 advantage late in the 2nd, until Zach Parise banged home a rebound with around 20 seconds to go in the period as it went tied through the 3rd into overtime.

-With about 6 seconds left in overtime, Travis Zajac found himself on a breakaway against Toskala.  Zajac has had a knack for coming up with the big goals this season, but not this time as Toskala stoned him.

-In the shootout, it was tied at 1 after 3 frames, and the Leafs sent Jason Blake out to shoot.  He did a spin-a-rama, which completely fooled Clemmensen, and scored easily.  It was a nasty move.  Clemmesen commited way too much, Blake had the whole net open.

-What was Rolston doing on his shot?  Slapshot from pretty far away, it was Chris Drury-isque. 

-The Rangers and Flyers won their games, while the Islanders lost in OT to Ovechkin's 2 goals and the Caps, 5-4.  Every team in the Atlantic that was active got at least one point last night.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 21-11-2 44 Pts
Flyers: 17-7-6 40 Pts
Penguins: 16-10-4 36 Pts
Devils: 16-9-3 35 Pts
Islanders: 10-18-3 23 Pts

Game Preview: 12/16/08 Devils @ Toronto Maple Leafs

The Devils will take to the road, where they have performed so well so far this year.  Tonight, they are in Toronto to take on the Maple Leafs.

-Scott Clemmensen will be in net tonight.  Kevin Weekes wanted the start, but it went to Scotty.

-The Maple Leafs are looking for their third straight win, as the Devils are looking to regain the momentum they had after winning four straight before losing to Buffalo on Saturday night at home. 

-Vesa Toskala, the Leafs goalie for tonight, is 1-3 with a 3.47 GAA against Jersey.

-Tonight, the only divisional team not in action is the third place Penguins. 

-The first place Rangers are in Anaheim to take on the Ducks.

-The second place Flyers, now just four points behind the Rangers with four games in hand, host the Avs who got a big win in Detroit last night.

-The last place Islanders host the Southwest division leading Capitals at Nassau. 

Around the league:

-The only other divisional game tonight features the Stars hosting the Coyotes.  Not like that division matters anyway, San Jose is running away with it. 

Devils show Rangers "We can beat you"

Instead of the usual "MAAAAARTYYYYYYY" and "YOU CAN'T BEAT US" chants, it was nice to hear "HENNNRIIKKKKK" and "WE CAN BEAT YOU" chants.

-The Devils had their best offensive performance in three years, scoring eight goals.

-The Devils had a 5-1 lead by the middle of the 2nd, with goals from Pandolfo, Zajac, Zubrus, Oduya, and Zajac again!

-I have been thinking of getting Zajac's jersey.  He is so clutch, man.  He seems to always be on the scoresheet in important games. 

-The Rangers definitely got to Clemmensen though.  They scored 3 goals in about ten minutes, which definitely shook him, and then tied it with about 8:45 left.  The last two were weak goals that he would have stopped, say, in the first. 

-11 seconds after the Rangers tied it, Elias slammed home a pass from Zubrus to make it 6-5.  Gionta soon after deked Lundqvist into the ice and backhanded the puck into the back of the net to make it 7-5.  The final goal came from the Captain Langenbrunner, to seal the 8-5 victory. 

-Lundqvist was garbage last night, wow.  8 goals.  We usually can't score more than 2.

-The Devils are in my mind right now the best team in the division, right up there with the Flyers.  The Rangers have played so many more games than everyone else, giving them first place almost by default.  The past three games have been against the threats in the division, and they have played with flying colors.

9-1 in their past 10 games. 

Rangers/Devils showdown tonight

The Devils will look to begin the redemption process tonight at the Rock as they take on the Rangers.

-If we can win this game in regulation, we'll be six points behind the Rangers with six games in hand.  That makes us the best team in the division in my mind.

-Clemmensen will get the start tonight, and I think he's gonna do really well.

-Let's hope for a boring 5-0 Devils game, and LET'S GO DEVILS!

Devils, Rangers rest before important game tomorrow

The Devils are looking to get out of the biggest, and maybe most embarrassing rut of their 28 year history with a REGULATION win over the Rangers for the first time in two years.

But before that, there's a day off, and a chance to watch the rest of the competition.

-The Flyers are hosting the Hurricanes tonight (seriously, what's with Carolina and Philly playing eachother so much lately?).  Last time in Philly, Carolina upset the Flyers in overtime.

-The divisional game of the night features the Islanders, currently on a 4 game slide, against the Penguins, fresh off their well-deserved spanking by the Devils last night.  Let's go Isles! (I won't say that too much, I promise).

-

Devils make statement with big win over Pittsburgh

The Devils made their case for even being 8 points out of the division lead, a legitimate threat in this division.

-The Devils got 4 goals, all from different skaters (Zajac, Parise, Zubrus, Elias).

-Clemmensen was clutch, shutting down the Penguins for most of the game, allowing just 1 goal on 27 shots from rival Pittsburgh. 

-I was disappointed in the beginning of the game, because the place was virtually empty.  Halfway through the first period the arena really started to fill up though.  I hear the Pittsburgh announcers were making fun of "all the empty seats".

-First off guys, we were 1,000 seats from a sellout.  Second, with all the amenities the Rock has, many ticket holders can watch the game from the Goal Bar, Fire, or Ice Lounges. 

-Scary moment near the end of the game. Bryce Salvador took a puck right to the face, with immediate blood on the ice.  He apparently practiced today which is a good sign.

-The Devils have played 6 less games than first place New York, yet are only 8 points behind them. 

Around the Division:

-The Rangers got out of Atlanta with a victory last night in overtime thanks to a GW goal by Benedict Gomez.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 19-10-2 40 Pts
Flyers: 14-7-6 34 Pts
Penguins: 15-9-4 34 Pts
Devils: 15-8-2 32 Pts
Islanders: 10-16-2 22 Pts

Devils take big win with confidence to Montreal

About 48 hours after Patrik Elias exploded to tie the game late and win it in OT in a crucial game in Philadelphia, the Devils finish their road trip in Montreal to take on the Canadiens.

-The Rangers learned quite well during their 6-2 embarrassment that it is not so easy to beat the Canadiens at home.  This is not a big game for Jersey, but every home game (especially during Hockey Night in Canada) is a big game for the Montreal faithful.
11
-Montreal's young Corey Price is a stud.  I won't be able to view this game but I'm interested to see how well he really plays.

-According to Gulitti's blog, Scott Clemmenson will start tonight in net, again.  Meanwhile, Bobby Holik will play for the first time since breaking his hand on October 18.  They said 6 weeks, it's been about 7, but hey whatever.

Around the division:

-Right now, the Penguins are losing to the Senators in Ottawa 3-1 with about 11 minutes left in the game. 

-The only idle team tonight in the Atlantic is the Rangers. 

-To update, the Penguins just scored, and it is 3-2 Ottawa.

-The Flyers are in Carolina tonight, and the Islanders host the Thrashers. 

Tonight belongs to Northwest, Pacific divisions

Tonight is truely a Western night.

-First, the only divisional game of the night pits the Canucks in Minnesota against the Wild. This should be a great game: Luongo vs. Backstrom, for first place in the Northwest.  The Wild have 31 points, while the Canucks have 30. 

-In other action, the Blues host the Flames, who are also near the top of the Northwest Division with 29 points.  The Stars host the Avs, and the Kings host the Edmonton Oilers. 

-It's rather slow tonight, because of the ten games that were played last night.  Saturday nights are usually the busiest on the  NHL schedule, and that rings true with 12 games on the schedule for tomorrow.

Elias explodes to lead Devils to shocking victory

No more calls for trading Elias, at least not for the next couple weeks.

-The Devils tied the score at 1 near the end of the 2nd period off a goal from Zach Parise, who was able to shoot the puck through a huge scramble in the front of the net.

-Timmonen scored the go ahead goal for Philly with 4:30 left, and I must tell you I thought it was over.  The Devils have not been that apt at coming from behind to win this season. 

-After Biron just batted the puck to Gionta, Gio gave it to Elias just inside the blueline where he one-timed it off Biron's pads and in.  2-2, tie game.

-About halfway through OT, Elias gets the puck, dekes by the defender, and backhands it between Biron's pads for the win.  Bench goes crazy, and Elias and Parise are taking part in an elated celebrationary hug on the Wachovia Center floor. 

-Biggest win of the season so far.  I thought it was over for good after Philly made it 2-1.  Huge game for the division, and a huge game for the Devils confidence. 

-Parise and Elias, the two goal scorers of the night, are really picking their game up this season.  Parise, with 14 goals, is on pace for 50.  Could Parise REALLY get 50 goals?  That's a big, big number. 

-Elias, who has 10, is on pace for 36 goals. 

Around the division:

-This turned out to be a good night in Jersey, for the most part.  The Rangers got killed 6-2 in Montreal, and the Islanders fell victim to Ovechkin and the Caps 5-2. 

-Unfortunately, it was not a perfect night.  The Flyers did get A point against us, and the Penguins defeated the Hurricanes in Carolina 5-2.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 18-9-2 38 Pts
Penguins: 15-6-4 34 Pts
Flyers: 12-7-6 30 Pts
Devils: 13-8-2 28 Pts
Islanders: 10-13-2 22 Pts

Devils battle Flyers in Philly tonight; rest of schedule could prove well for New Jersey

The Devils haven't played since Saturday, but they better come prepared.  The Flyers, who are 6-0-1 in their last 7, are flying and at home tonight to take on New Jersey.

-HUGE that Rolston and Madden are back tonight.  That leaves Holik, Brodeur (obviously), and Greene as the only big guys still out with injuries.

-If the Devils win, this could prove to be a huge burst in the standings.  The Rangers are in Montreal, the Islanders are in Washington, and the Penguins are in Carolina.  Hoping that all those home teams can pull off victories, the Devils could move up while everyone else stays pat. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 18-8-2 38 Pts
Penguins: 14-6-4 32 Pts
Flyers: 12-7-5 29 Pts
Devils: 12-8-2 26 Pts
Islanders: 10-12-2 22 Pts

Around the league:

Southeast:

-Every team in the Southeast in action tonight (Washington, Carolina, Florida, and Tampa Bay) are at home tonight.  That division will surely see some movement.

Central:

-Detroit is home to take on Vancouver tonight, while the Predators are home to take on the Avalanche. 

Pacific:

-The Sharks are tied for the best record after 25 games in NHL history.  They look to improve further with a potential home win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.  These Sharks are scary, man.  They're going to give Detroit a run for their money in the WCF.  I can't wait to see that potential matchup. 

-The Coyotes, looking to stay on track and earn a playoff berth in a few months, are home to take on the west-coast tripping Maple Leafs.  The Leafs are 1-1 on this trip.

Rangers come back.. AGAIN, and win shootout.. AGAIN

The Rangers fell 2-0 to the Pittsburgh Penguins at the halfway mark, but thanks to a late goal by Petr Prucha (his first of the year) they were able to tie it.

-Screw that.  First off, BOTH teams got points, the worst situation possible.  And the Rangers won, and are now 12 points up on the 4th place Devils (with 6 games in hand for the Devils).

-Pittsburgh also got a point, and in second place are six ahead of New Jersey.  The third place Flyers are three ahead. 

-Every other home team won last night.  The Sens defeated Atlanta 5-1, the Wild shut out the Blues 4-0, the Oilers handled the Stars 5-2, and the Blackhawks rallied to defeat the Ducks 4-2.

Top 2 in Atlantic have major showdown tonight at MSG

Around the Division: The Rangers, who are 5 points ahead of Pittsburgh, will host those Penguins tonight at MSG. 

-As a Devils fan, you want Pittsburgh to win this game, as it keeps first place that much closer.  Deal with Pittsburgh's run later, we need to deal with the Rangers now. 

-BIG news from Philly, as Briere is out for 4-5 weeks with a strained groin.  He hasn't played much during their hot streak, but that's still a big hit for them.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 17-8-2 36 Pts
Penguins: 14-6-3 31 Pts
Flyers: 12-7-5 29 Pts
Devils: 12-8-2 26 Pts
Islanders: 10-12-2 22 Pts

Around the league:

Northeast: -The underachieving Senators host the Thrashers at home tonight.  Kind of a bore, but hey, whatever.

Northwest: The Wild will look to jump into first place tonight, which they will if they can defeat the Blues at home.  This should be an easy one for the Wild, this is a golden opportunity they'd be wise not to screw up.

Flyers escape OT with crucial home victory

Around the Division: The Flyers won 4-3 in OT thanks to a GW goal by Mike Richards.  They are now 3 points ahead of our 4th place Devils. 

-Scott Hartnell had a brain fart with just seconds to go on a breakaway, as he threw his glove at Ryan Malone trying to distract him, and gave Malone a chance for a penalty shot.  He failed, saving Hartnell from almost certain crusification. 

-The Flyers are hot, the Devils need to be aware tomorrow night.  If we don't come out fast and flying, we're toast.  They've won 7 of 8, they are no joke right now.

Around the league:

Northeast: The Canadiens had a 3-0 lead diminish in a minute AT HOME in the third period, but nevertheless defeated the Thrashers 5-4. 

Southeast: The Panthers had their biggest win of the season last night, defeating the Capitals 5-3 in Washington to give A. Washington their first regulation loss at home this year, and B. themselves a boost in the standings, now just 6 points behind Washington for the division lead. 

Northwest: Shortly after Sean Avery was suspended for his comments (I hate Sean Avery, but come on, that does not warrant a suspension) his Stars defeated the Flames in Calgary 3-1.  If Calgary won, they would've propelled themselves to first place in the division, but that was not to be last night.

Pacific: The Coyotes defeated the Kings 4-2 in Phoenix.  Even with Bryzgalov out, the Coyotes are still playing quite well. 

-The Sharks manhandeled the Leafs at home last night, scoring 4 in the first and never looking back.  The Sharks are now 21-3-1, and 12 points ahead 2nd place Anaheim.

Flyers only divisional team in action tonight

The Flyers, no longer the red-hot streaking Flyers that they were Friday afternoon, will be home tonight to take on a floundering Tampa Bay Lightning squad. The Lightning have beaten the Flyers in Philly already this season, but that came during the beginning of the season, when the Flyers couldn't buy a victory.

The first place Capitals will play host to the third place Panthers in a Southeast divisional game tonight.  This is a big game for the Panthers, as if they grab a regulation victory they are only 6 out of the top spot in the division. 

In a less important divisional game taking place in the Pacific division, the Kings will visit the Coyotes.  This is nothing more than a battle for third place, and not much else, considering the Sharks are running train on the NHL with their 20-3-1 record.

Time to take a look at all the divisions, starting with the Devils' Atlantic:
Rangers: 17-8-2 36 Pts
Penguins: 14-6-3 31 Pts
Flyers: 11-7-5 27 Pts
Devils: 12-8-2 26 Pts
Islanders: 10-12-2 22 Pts

Outlook: This division may be the most competitive in hockey.  Besides the Islanders, all 4 teams have been playing well enough to be considered threats.  The Rangers are in first now, but the four to five games they have over the rest of the teams in the division has a lot to say about that.  The Rangers would be in second place right now if they had played four or five less games.  The Flyers are hot, and they can't be counted out anytime soon.  Everyone's favorite Devils are the real wild card in this division.  They've won 5 of 6, yet sit in 4th place and 10 points out of the throne.  The key to getting back in the race is taking advantage of the three straight games against teams ahead of them in the division (in Philly, and at the Rock against Pittsburgh and New York).

Northeast:
Bruins: 16-4-4 36 Pts
Canadiens: 13-6-4 30 Pts
Sabres: 11-10-3 25 Pts
Maple Leafs: 9-9-6 24 Pts
Senators: 8-10-4 20 Pts

Outlook: I really like the Bruins or the Canadiens in this division for two reasons: They both win at home.  Any team that can play 9-1-1 hockey at home like the Bruins, or 6-2-2 hockey at home like the Habs, consistently will have a shot at winning a division title.  I like the Canadiens right now a little more because they had an awesome run in the middle of last season, and they have a lot of the same players.  I don't trust the Bruins to continue playing as well as they have been this first quarter of the season.

Southeast:
Capitals: 13-8-3 29 Pts
Hurricanes: 12-11-2 26 Pts
Panthers: 9-11-3 21 Pts
Thrashers: 8-12-3 19 Pts
Lightning: 6-10-7 19 Pts

Outlook: In the SouthLeast division (whoops, did I say that?) the Hurricanes, current first-place Capitals, and MAYBE the Panthers, with a small chance, are the only teams with a shot in this division.  The Lightning are a hot mess, and the Thrashers have nothing besides Kovalchuk.  I'm in awe that the Capitals aren't absolutely running away with this division, especially with their 9-0-1 home record (by the way, they're only loss was against NEW JERSEYYYY BABY) .  I expect nothing more than Washington winning, with maybe a late chase by Carolina.

Central:
Red Wings: 16-4-4 36 Pts
Blackhawks: 10-6-6 26 Pts
Predators: 12-10-2 26 Pts
Blue Jackets: 11-10-3 25 Pts
Blues: 10-10-2 22 Pts

Outlook: Let's be serious, Detroit.  They're stacked, and every other team in this division is either inexperienced (Blackhawks, Blues) or just plain not good enough, such as the Blue Jackets and Predators. 

Northwest:
Canucks: 14-9-2 30 Pts
Wild: 14-8-1 29 Pts
Flames: 14-9-1 29 Pts
Avalanche: 12-12-0 24 Pts
Oilers: 10-11-2 22 Pts

Outlook: This division is very intriguing.  Any team could win this division.  I like the Canucks because of Luongo and the Sedin twins.  I like the Wild because of their hot goalie Niklas Backstrom and all their young talent.  I like the Flames because of Iginla and Phaneuf, not to mention Kiprusoff.  I like the Avs because of their great mix of youth and veterans.  I like the Oilers because of Hemsky, who might be the best play maker in the league behind Crosby.  At the end of the day, it'll come down to the Flames and the Canucks, and I really like the Flames.

Pacific:
Sharks: 20-3-1 41 Pts
Ducks: 14-9-3 31 Pts
Kings: 10-10-3 23 Pts
Coyotes: 10-11-2 22 Pts
Stars: 8-11-4 20 Pts

Outlook: Hahahahaha.  San Jose Sharks.  No other team has a chance except the Ducks, and their chance is barely microscopic. 

Night of upsets boosts most everyone in Atlantic Division, Devils included

The Devils won their 2nd straight on the road, and 5th straight overall as they held off the Panthers with a game winning, overtime goal by Johnny Oduya.

-Goals by Gionta (been getting hot lately) and Zajac in the first pulled Vokoun out of the Florida net.

-The Panthers tied the game with two goals in the final 2:30.  The tying goal was scored by David Booth with roughly seven seconds left.  

-Johnny Oduya scored on a two-on-one chance with Zajac.  Oduya briefly lost the puck, then shot it between Anderson's pads. 

-I sat Johnny Oduya on my fantasy team because I didn't expect him to do much.  Turns out he scored a game winning goal and had an assist.  Whoo hoo! :(

-These five straight wins gives the Devils some awesome momentum going into Pittsburgh on Saturday. 

Around the Division:

-The first place Rangers blew a late lead against the Lightning, but ultimately defeated Tampa in Tampa thanks to the Serta mattress salesman in net we call Henrik Lundqvist. 

-The Islanders blew a 3-0 lead thanks to a 3rd period hat trick by Malkin, and lost 5-3 to the Penguins.

-The Flyers defeated the Hurricanes in Raleigh 3-1 off two goals by Simon Gagne.  The Flyers have won 6 in a row, besting the Devils' 5 right now. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 16-7-2 34 Pts
Penguins: 13-5-3 29 Pts
Devils: 12-7-2 26 Pts
Flyers: 11-6-4 26 Pts
Islanders: 9-11-2 20 Pts

All 5 Atlantic teams in action before brief Thanksgiving break

The standings will shake up a little, as all American teams will have off Thursday for Thanksgiving, so the US schedule for Wednesday is a little full.

The Devils will take on the Panthers in Sunrise.  The Panthers are not all that good, maybe the Devils can find a way around them in their house.  They have a respectable 5-3 record at home do the Panthers, it's the road where they've found troubles with a 3-8-1 record. 

The divisional game of the night features the Islanders, currently in last place and 12 points behind the Rangers, facing the Penguins who are in 2nd place and only 5 points behind the first place New York squad.  The Rangers find themselves in Tampa to take on the Lightning for the final time this season, and the 4th place Flyers are in Carolina. 

Rangers, Flyers win at home, Islanders upset Montreal with fluke goal

The Rangers handled the Coyotes rather easily at MSG, winning 4-1 behind goals from Betts, Dubinsky, Girardi and Gomez. 

The Flyers were barely victorious at home, scraping a 4-3 win off two goals from Mike Knuble. 

The Islanders were also able to get a win, 4-3 in a shootout in Montreal.  They tied the game when  Ryan O'Byrne knocked the puck into his own net with 5 minutes left.

The Devils are now 8 points behind the first place Rangers.

Nothing of interest tonight, besides a Blues-Predators matchup in the Central. 

Rangers, Flyers in action at home, Islanders in Montreal

No matter what happens today, the Devils will wake up tomorrow and still be in third place in the Atlantic Division.  The amount they are behind first place, and ahead of last could change though.

First, the Rangers are hosting the Phoenix Coyotes in their only visit of the season.  The Rangers are a solid defensive team, while the Coyotes are a low scoring team.  This looks like a simple win for the Rangers, even though they've lost their past two, Phoenix has lost their past five contests.

The Flyers, who are just two points back of the Devils for third, host the Stars tonight.  Even if/when the Flyers earn the 2 points, the Devils own the tiebreaker of more total wins, so they will own third place.  The Flyers are looking for their fifth straight win against a Dallas team which finds themselves at the bottom of the Pacific division.  Looks like two easy points for these Devils rivals, too.

The Islanders look to have a tougher time tonight, however, as they are in Montreal to take on the Canadiens.  Although the Islanders have won 4 out of 5, Montreal is not an easy place to pick up a victory if you are not the Canadiens.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 14-7-2 30 Pts
Penguins: 12-5-3 27 Pts
Devils: 11-7-2 24 Pts
Flyers: 9-6-4 22 Pts
Islanders: 8-10-2 18 Pts

Devils win 4th in a row as Zubrus explodes for four

The Devils were able to overcome Tampa Bay on the road in a BIG way, by a score of 7-3, with four of the seven scored by Dainius Zubrus. 

New Jersey got off to a 5-0 lead midway through the game, but Tampa scored three, one of which was a Ryan Malone penalty shot goal, before the 2nd period ended, putting New Jersey on their heels.  Now this was not a must win game at all, but I was getting a little nervous of letting this 5 goal lead slip.  Luckily, Zubrus scored twice in the 3rd, his third and fourth of the game, to put the game way out of reach.

Congrats to Zubrus for his four goals, which ties a Devils record.  The last to do it was Patrik Elias all the way back in 2003, our last cup year.  Hopefully that's a good sign!

Just as the Devils upset the Lightning at home, there was another one in the only other game of the day, as Shea Weber scored 2 goals to lead the Preds to a 5-2 victory in Carolina.

The Devils are now just 6 back of the Rangers for first with three games in hand.  They are also just three back of 2nd place Pittsburgh, who they are even in games played with.

Good for the Devs, after that big loss to first place New York, they've bounced back and won the last four, and this one was a huge win over a Tampa team that was in front of their home fans and should've been more ready to play.  Regardless, Florida on Wednesday, and a big game against Pittsburgh on Saturday.

Sorry about the long layoff...

Real life (work) has been pretty nuts lately, making it hard to update this.  The past few days have been work-go home-sleep-wake up-work-go home-sleep-wake up-work.. etc, etc.  I long for the days when something like this is my actual job, and I don't have to worry about serving food at Friday's to get by.

Anyway, the Devils have won their last 3, all important games.  Their biggest one was on Friday, with Weekes in net, the Devils scored 5 goals and thumped them by a score of 5-2.

Another thing, Mottau was suspended for TWO games for his hit on Nielsen.  The hit was nothing more than an accidental elbow, but the NHL has never been very good at this sort of thing.

Regardless, the Devils find themselves tonight 8 points back of the first place Rangers, with 4 games in hand (4 wins= 8 points).  So they're in a nice position for the time being. 

The Devils play tomorrow in Tampa, it'd be AWESOME to steal a win there.  Tampa's found some rocky times this season, let's take advantage of that, even on a road game. 

The only other game on the day is a home game for Carolina against the Preds. 

Pens take on Wild on VERSUS

The Penguins have a home game against the visiting Minnesota Wild tonight on VERSUS.  The Penguins are only 6 points behind the Rangers, and have played 4 less games.  They could start to spook New York with a win tonight.

There are two divisional games on the schedule tonight: the 4th place Panthers at the last place Lightning (who cares) in the Southeast, and the last place Avalanche at the third place Flames (eh).  My attention will be mostly on the Wild-Penguins game.  In other action, the Blue Jackets host the Oilers, the Hurricanes host Montreal, and the Coyotes host Chicago. 

Rangers, Islanders both win in shootouts

The Rangers and Islanders both came back and tied the game 1-1 against Ottawa and Vancouver, respectively, and won in the shootout.

Funny thing about the Rangers shootout, they sent Jarkko Ruutu out to shoot, and he lost control of the puck.  Lundqvist thought it was a dead play, but Ruutu got the puck and fired it from a sharp angle off Lundqvist's blocker.  The Rangers were moaning about it, but figures that after someone from TSN looked in the rule book, that if it had gone in the net, it would've counted.  It never crossed the red (goal) line, he never attempted to shoot it, and it never touched Lundqvist. 

In other games, the Bruins improved to 9-1-1 in their last 11 games as they defeated the Maple Leafs in Toronto, 3-2.  The Red Wings shut out the Oilers 4-0, and the Sharks took a game 4-1 in Nashville against the Preds, who upset them at home earlier this season.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 14-5-2 30 Pts
Penguins: 11-4-2 24 Pts
Devils: 8-7-2 18 Pts
Flyers: 7-6-4 18 Pts
Islanders: 7-9-2 16 Pts

Devils in Washington to begin home-and-home tonight

The Devils are in Washington tonight to take on the Caps, where they upset them in a shootout a month ago.  The Devils get their turn tomorrow night as the Capitals come to the Rock.

Scott Clemmensen will be in goal, after he somewhat held the fort down on Wednesday and kept the Ranger game from getting out of hand.  I like that, considering that will give Weekes the start in the more important game which is tomorrow.  In these circumstances, you just try to win the home games and hope for the best on the road. 

No other Atlantic teams are in action tonight, although all of them are tomorrow. 

Penguins, Flyers, Islanders all gain points

All three teams in action earned points last night as they all make a move towards the first place Rangers, and possibly pushing the Devils down in the standings.

The Penguins had a 3-0 lead last night that got away, but were still able to put it away in the shootout.  The Penguins goalie, Dany Sabourin, had a nasty stick save during the shootout that very well saved the game for the Pens.

The Islanders upset the Senators in Ottawa, 3-1.  The Islanders continue to play rather better than normal.  The last place Islanders are now only 4 points behind the Devils. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 12-5-2 26 Pts
Penguins: 10-4-2 22 Pts
Devils: 7-6-2 16 Pts
Flyers: 5-6-4 14 Pts
Islanders: 5-9-2 12 Pts

Preview: 11/13/08- Penguins host Flyers, Islanders in Ottawa

The Penguins are flying high after their dramatic comeback win against the Red Wings in Detroit on Tuesday, and they look to inch closer to first place as they host the Flyers in a divisional game tonight.  The Flyers have been playing very well lately, after their 0-5-1 start. 

The Islanders will battle another last place team, the Ottawa Senators, in Ottawa tonight. 

Other divisional games tonight include the Canadiens visiting Boston to take on the Bruins for first place, and the Kings in Dallas to skate against the Stars. 

Devils dominated by Rangers... Again

The Devils fell apart in the 2nd, letting in 4 goals in an eventual final score of a 5-2 bashing by the cross-town rivals.

The Devils came out with tons of energy in the 1st, taking a 1-0 lead into the locker room after Zajac's rebound found nylon.  There's been a lot of complaints about the amount of Rangers fans that attend these games, but in that first period, it was very quiet from the road crowd, it was very loud with Devils fans.

But with Rags fans, if you give them an inch, they'll go a mile.  After the Devils 2 consecutive penalties gave the Rangers a 5-on-3, the Rangers fans woke up and started being loud and obnoxious.  It got no better as the Rangers would score 4 unanswered goals in that period.  Weekes would be pulled for Scott Clemmensen in the 3rd period. 

That's 1-9 the past two seasons against the Rangers.  It'd probably be fair to say they have our number.  A lot of fans think the Devils didn't come out with any heart or passion, I disagree.  It was there in the first, but the problem is that first goal.  After the Rangers tied it up, the Devils thought it was done for, and there was no way they could win.  It wasn't they didn't want to win, it's just I don't think that they think they can. 

With this win, the Devils are now a season high 10 points behind the Rangers in the Atlantic Division, although the Rangers have played four more games than the Devils. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 12-5-2 26 Pts
Penguins: 9-4-2 20 Pts
Devils: 7-6-2 16 Pts
Flyers: 5-6-3 13 Pts
Islanders: 4-9-2 10 Pts

Preview: 11/11/08- Flyers at Nassau, Penguins in Finals rematch

The Islanders and Flyers will face off in about an hour for a matinee divisional game.  At first, when I saw the start time (2 PM) I thought, "What the hell? 2 o' clock start on a Tuesday afternoon, now even more people won't be going to an Islanders game."  Then I looked at the calendar and saw it's Veterans' Day, and then it made a little more sense.  Regardless, no one's showing up to that one. 

There are a couple other interesting games on the schedule for today.  The Penguins go to the city which stole the Cup from them (well, not really) tonight as they face off against the Detroit Red Wings on Versus.  With the day off from "real" work, and nothing else to do, I think I'm gonna catch that game. 

There are two other divisional games tonight:
Northeast-
Ottawa vs. Montreal
Dallas vs. Los Angeles

With a month gone in the regular season, I figured it was a good time to look at the standings.

ATLANTIC:
Rangers: 11-5-2 24 Pts
Penguins: 8-4-2 18 Pts
Devils: 7-5-2 16 Pts
Flyers: 4-6-3 11 Pts
Islanders: 4-8-2 10 Pts

Outlook: I didn't expect the Rangers to be this good, or the Flyers to be this bad.  Are the Rangers just off to a hot start, and in store for an inevitable cooldown?  I predicted the Rangers not to win 40 games this season, but they've already got 11 in their first 18 games.  As for the Flyers, they have one of the most potent offenses not just in the division, but in the entire Eastern Conference.  I think they're going to be dangerous coming down the stretch.

NORTHEAST:
Bruins: 8-3-3 19 Pts
Sabres: 8-3-3 19 Pts
Canadiens: 8-2-2 18 Pts
Maple Leafs: 6-5-4 16 Pts
Senators: 6-6-2 14 Pts

Outlook: This might be the most competitive division in the whole league.  3 really excellent teams so far in Buffalo, Boston, and Montreal.  The Senators, just around .500, are in last place in that division.  That says it all.  I like Buffalo and Montreal over Boston, I don't think Boston has the firepower to last that long.  They're 4th in their division in goals scored.

SOUTHEAST:
Capitals: 8-4-2 18 Pts
Hurricanes: 8-5-2 18 Pts
Lightning: 5-5-4 14 Pts
Thrashers: 6-7-2 14 Pts
Panthers: 5-8-1 11 Pts

Outlook: I really like the Capitals in this division.  The only other team I can see competing for the title is Carolina, but I don't think they're as defensively sound as Washington.  The Lightning won't have the chemistry to compete, and the Thrashers and Panthers are just awful.

CENTRAL:
Red Wings: 9-2-2 20 Pts
Blackhawks: 7-3-3 17 Pts
Blue Jackets: 7-6-2 16 Pts
Predators: 6-7-1 13 Pts
Blues: 5-7-1 11 Pts

Outlook: Red Wings.  They're LOADED.  They were loaded last season, and then they signed Marion Hossa.  The only other team with a chance in this division is the Blackhawks, who I think will stay close but inevitably fall short at the end.  The Wings are too good.

NORTHWEST:
Canucks: 9-6-0 18 Pts
Wild: 8-4-1 17 Pts
Oilers: 8-6-1 17 Pts
Flames: 8-7-1 16 Pts
Avalanche: 6-8-0 12 Pts

Outlook: It's pretty tight when the first place team and fourth place team are only separated by one point.  I gotta say I like the Canucks, with the Sedin twins and the best goalie in hockey right now guarding their net.  But I wouldn't be surprised to see the Oilers, or the Flames take this one.  The Wild always start hot, but never stay hot.  History likes to repeat itself.

PACIFIC:
Sharks: 13-3-0 26 Pts
Ducks: 9-7-1 19 Pts
Coyotes: 7-6-0 14 Pts
Kings: 5-6-2 12 Pts
Stars: 5-7-2 12 Pts

Outlook: The Sharks are the best team in the NHL right now.  They're hellbent on winning a cup, they've gotten close the past few years, and they've definitely been good enough.  It doesn't matter if they go 65-17, they need to finish in the playoffs, which they've never been able to do. 

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Preview: 11/9/08- Devils back at Rock, injuries aplenty

The Devils will face off against the Oilers about 45 minutes from now.  It was just learned that Scott Clemmenson will get the start in net (which was what I was worried about) and Brian Gionta is out of the lineup with an upper body injury.  Patrick Davis is taking his spot on the roster for now.  Gionta's name may be added to a list of IR members which includes Brian Rolston, Andy Greene, Bobby Holik, Martin Brodeur, and Paul Martin.  Bryce Salvador was also hurt on Saturday, but is good to go for tonight.  The Devils called up Jay Leach in case Salvador couldn't play, b ut Leach will play anyway, and Bergfors will be a healthy scratch. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 11-5-1 23 Pts
Penguins: 8-4-2 18 Pts
Devils: 7-4-2 16 Pts
Flyers: 4-6-3 11 Pts
Islanders: 4-8-2 10 Pts

Preview: 11/8/08- Devils in defending Champs' house

The Devils will take a break from playing at the Rock for tonight, as they visit the Stanley Cup Champion Red Wings in Detroit. 

Detroit's an offensive powerhouse with six players with more than 10 points already.  To compare, the Devils only have one.  The firepower of the Wings gives an important question: Who is the starting goalie tonight?  With a game tomorrow night against Edmonton, whoever starts tonight will almost definitely not start tomorrow.  If you start Weekes tonight, you put a shaky Clemmenson in net tomorrow night, in a more important game since it's at home.  But if you put Clemmenson in tonight against the Wings, it could get really ugly really quick.  I guess I can't blame the Devils for whatever they do.

To give even more uncertainty, the Devils haven't won in Detroit since 1997.  This one could probably get ugly, especially depending on who's in goal.

All 4 of the other teams in the Devils' division are in action tonight as it's a busy as usual Saturday in hockey.  The Islanders host the Penguins in the divisional showdown of the night.  The Islanders have played well lately, they're no longer the joke of two weeks ago. 

The Flyers will look to stay hot as Tampa comes into town, and the Rangers will visit Ovechkin and the Caps. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 11-4-1 23 Pts
Devils: 7-3-2 16 Pts
Penguins: 7-4-2 16 Pts
Flyers: 4-5-3 11 Pts
Islanders: 4-8-1 9 Pts

There are two divisional games in the Northeast division tonight.  The Bruins host the Buffalo Sabres, and Montreal visits Toronto. 

Preview: 11/6/08- All Devils' rivals in action tonight; Devs 5 points out of division lead

After one of the biggest wins of the young season for New Jersey last night, they have off for the next couple of days.  That said, every other team in the division is playing tonight.  Starting off with the Rangers at home, hosting the Lightning.  Let's hope the Bolts can pull an upset over the Rangers, as they almost did to us last night.

The Penguins are the other division team playing at home, taking on the Oilers.  The Islanders and Flyers are on the road, facing off against the Thrashers and Senators respectively.

There are a bunch of division games tonight.  In the Northeast, the 3rd place Bruins host the 4th place Maple Leafs.  In the Southeast, the first place Hurricanes are in Washington to face Ovechkin and the Caps, who are just 4 points behind Carolina.

In the Northwest, the first place Wild are in Colorado to try and take down the last place Avs.  Even though Colorado is in last place in their division, they are only five points back.  A win tonight could catapult them up into a little more contention. 

BRODEUR OUT 3-4 MONTHS, Rangers and Islanders clash at MSG

What was originally thought to be just a bruised elbow, is no longer just a bruised elbow.

The Devils announced today that Brodeur will need surgery to reattach a bicep tendon to his elbow.  He is not expected back until February, maybe even March.

Huge blow for the Devils.  Although, I have faith in Weekes.  Just because he never plays with Marty in front of him doesn't mean he isn't a fine damn goaltender.  To this day I don't know why Weekes decided to sign here when he knew his playing time would be cut so short, but today, I'm very happy he decided to.  Weekes has been the ultimate sportsman, and I wouldn't want anyone else between the pipes right now.  He's had the Devils back for the past season and a half, just in case they needed it.  Now we all have to have his back. 

The Rangers, who sit in the Atlantic Division throne for the moment, are home to take on the Islanders in a divisional showdown tonight.  The Rangers have 21 points, 7 more than the 2nd place Devils 14. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 10-3-1 21 Pts
Devils: 6-3-2 14 Pts
Penguins: 6-4-2 14 Pts
Flyers: 4-4-3 11 Pts
Islanders: 3-7-1 7 Pts

Weekes superb, but Devils show no offensive support

Weekes had a great game, but the Devils were shutout for the first time this season, while going 0-for-7 on the power play in a 2-0 defeat to the Sabres at home.

0-FOR-7?!? 14 minutes of time where you have one more skater on the ice than the other team, and you can't score once?  Not to mention the 20 shots they made Weekes face in the first, while they fired only three at Ryan Miller.

The Devils took a lot of penalties in the first, which was a big reason of the huge shots on goal difference.  The Sabres did a good job of crowding their own net, letting minimal shots through.

-The Islanders blew a 3-0 lead at home to Columbus, but won in overtime as Bill Guerin scored the winner.

Weekes in goal tonight as Devils host Sabres on National TV

With Brodeur still reeling from a left elbow bruise, Weekes will make the start tonight against Buffalo at the Rock.

Along with Brodeur, Paul Martin will not be available either due to upper body soreness.  Anssi Salmela was called up from Lowell to take his spot.  This is Salmela's second stint with the Devils this season.

I figure since the Devils have so many injuries (five significant ones), to go over them:

Brian Rolston: Injured on 10/16/08.  Injury: High right ankle sprain.

Status: He's been out for almost three weeks already, but keep in mind this is the same injury that kept Crosby off the ice for a significant portion of time as well.  If I had to guess, it's going to be at least another 2 weeks until Rolston's back on the ice for the Devils. 

Bobby Holik: Injured on 10/18.  Injury: Broken pinky.

Status: The timetable was about 4 weeks.  It's been roughly two and a half, so expect Bobby to come back sometime at the end of next week. 

Andy Greene: Injured on 10/29.  Injury: Broken right hand.

Status: He's got a long way to go.  Don't expect him back until early to mid December. 

Martin Brodeur: Injured on 11/1.  Injury: Bruised left elbow.

Status: I think the whole thing is precautionary.  I don't see him coming back any later than Saturday or Sunday.

Paul Martin: Injured on ? Injury: Body soreness.

Status: This stuff happens.  Give him a couple days off, maybe he comes back on Wednesday, if not, then Saturday. 

All Devils rivals in action tonight

The Devils don't play tonight, but all the teams they hate do. 

The action is topped off with the Islanders visiting the Flyers in a divisional showdown.  The Rangers are home to take on the Thrashers, while the Penguins are in Phoenix. 

I like the Flyers in a game at home against the Isles.  I also unfortunately think the Rangers will win AGAIN, but I see the Penguins losing in OT or a shootout. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 9-2-1 19 Pts
Devils: 5-2-2 12 Pts
Penguins: 5-3-2 12 Pts
Flyers: 3-3-3 9 Pts
Islanders: 2-6-0 4 Pts

Leafs conquer Devils in shootout

The Devils were doomed to their 3rd consecutive loss last night, as the Maple Leafs were victorious in a game that was decided by shootout, 6-5.

The Devils got off to a quick 2-0 lead in the first 9 minutes of the game, with quick goals from Clarkson (originally awarded to Vrana but was taken away from him in the 3rd) and Zubrus.  Just as quickly as they had gotten the lead in the first, they gave it away in the 2nd, as the Leafs scored three times in the first ten minutes of the second to give themselves the lead, but Langenbrunner scored to tie it up at the midway point.

The lead would flucuate back and forth, until the Maple Leafs were leading 5-4 with about ten minutes to go in the game, and Mr. Zach Parise picked up a loose rebound and tied the game up. 

The big moment in this game which led to the loss was the power play in overtime we let get away.  We had lots of opportunities to get the puck in the net, but couldn't succeed in doing so.  Even in the last two minutes of regulation we had a lot of shots that just barely missed nylon. 

Unfortunately, the Leafs won in the shootout with Hagman scoring the winning goal for them. I was at the arena, and I had a few thoughts:

1. Some guy with a big group of people had a stack of tickets, and was giving them away!  Section 104, row 3.  Tickets that normally go for $65.  What struck me was that there was no face value on them, which means they were given away by the Devils.  One thing I'd like to know is how this guy got his hands on so many seats. 

2. There was a good crowd for a Wednesday night, 14,000.  I'm used to 12-13 thousand on a Wednesday night.  I'm excited to see what the crowd may be for Saturday, dare I say 15-16 thousand people?

3. One thing that annoyed me, me and my friends were standing up during the shootout (like you damn well should) and people were yelling at us to sit down.  This isn't the first time I've been yelled at, or seen people been yelled at.  I was mad enough the Phillies had just won the Series, so I turned around and shouted "This is a (bleep) shootout, stand the (bleep) up."  I didn't hear anymore yelling, and next time I looked back it seemed that more people were standing than before.  I'm sorry, but if you want to sit down during the most important part of the game, do me a favor, stay home on your couch and do it. 

Devils look to shape up at home tonight vs. Leafs

Devils look to shape up after a 2 game losing streak against Philly, tonight at the Rock against Toronto.

Toronto has been rather mediocre this season so far, going 3-3-3.  They have no real cunning offensive threat like they did when Sundin was on the Leafs back in the day (haha).

I was thinking MAYBE a start for Weekes?  But at home, I doubt it. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 9-2-1 19 Pts
Penguins: 5-3-2 12 Pts
Devils: 5-2-1 11 Pts
Flyers: 3-3-3 9 Pts
Islanders: 2-6-0 4 Pts

Islanders host Rangers tonight, couple other divisional matchups as well

The last place Islanders will host the first place Rangers at Nassau tonight.  The Rangers currently sit six points ahead of the Devils, while the Islanders sit 7 behind the Devils. 
Let's just hope for an Islander win tonight.  That deficit in the division is getting a bit uncomfortable.

There are two other divisional games in the league tonight.  The Sabres are hosting the Senators in Buffalo, and the Wild are home in Minnesota to welcome the Blackhawks.

Other games feature:
Ducks vs. Blue Jackets
Bruins vs. Oilers
Red Wings vs. Kings

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 8-2-1 17 Pts
Penguins: 5-2-2 12 Pts
Devils: 5-2-1 11 Pts
Flyers: 2-3-3 7 Pts
Islanders: 2-5-0 4 Pts

Devils looking for quick revenge in Philly, while all other teams in NHL play tonight

In the first day of the year where all 30 teams will play on the same night, the Devils-Flyers game will be the first one to be played on the day. 

To my surprise, Brodeur is starting today over Weekes.  That's a little weird, but it is a divisional game.  I think Weekes won't get a turn for a while, but you gotta feel for the guy. 

The Rangers are hosting the Penguins today for a divisional showdown at 7, and the Islanders play host to the Hurricanes.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 7-2-1 15 Pts
Penguins: 5-2-1 11 Pts
Devils: 5-2-0 10 Pts
Flyers: 1-3-3 5 Pts
Islanders: 2-5-0 4 Pts

Devils doubled up by Flyers and dealt first home loss; Rangers upset Columbus on road

The Flyers were desperately hungry for their first win of the season last night, and they showed it in their play, as they won 6-3 over the Devils in New Jersey's first home loss of the season. 

The Devils did get off to a quick start, scoring their first goal in the first minute off a bank in goal from Zajac who put the puck in front, hit Biron with it, and went in the net.  The Flyers would score one minute later off a rocket from Jeff Carter near the right faceoff circle, taking all that early momentum away.

Marty didn't really play well last night, he didn't have anything spectacular to mention.  Biron didn't play well either, he was just lucky all those rebounds he gave away didn't go the Devils way.

Meanwhile, the Rangers won in Columbus, 3-1, to move 5 points ahead of the Devils in the Atlantic, who are in 3rd place.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 7-2-1 15 Pts
Penguins: 5-2-1 11 Pts
Devils: 5-2-0 10 Pts
Flyers: 1-3-3 5 Pts
Islanders: 2-5-0 4 Pts

Devils hope to send unwarm welcome to Flyers; Rangers in Columbus tonight

The Devils will look to win their 4th straight and 6th of the season as the division rival Flyers come to Newark tonight.  The Flyers are winless on the season, with 3 losses in regulation and 3 losses in overtime.  This game makes me nervous, because you know the Flyers are getting desperate and need to win eventually. 
This is the first of a home and home series, as the Devils will visit Philadelphia tomorrow afternoon.  Let's hope for a sweep!

The only other action in the division tonight features the Rangers in Columbs to take on the Jackets. Let's hope the Jackets can shut down the Rangers at home as they should.

Penguins win easily; Islanders fall at home

The Penguins put the Canes away easily, winning 4-1 to move past the Devils and into 2nd place in the Atlantic.  Meanwhile, the Islanders were handled by the Stars, 5-3.  That moves the Islanders to 2-4-0 on the season.  Even the winless Flyers are only one point behind them.

Toronto won the only divisional game of the night on the road in Boston 4-2. 

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 6-2-1 13 Pts
Penguins: 5-2-1 11 Pts
Devils: 5-1-0 10 Pts
Islanders: 2-4-0 4 Pts
Flyers: 0-3-3 3 Pts

Penguins, Islanders at home tonight; Devils off

The Islanders will get their shot at the Stars, the night after the Devils shut them out 5-0.  The Penguins will be hosting the Hurricanes in Pittsburgh, as well.

One big divisional game tonight, as the Bruins host the Maple Leafs.  Word is Jason Blake will be a healthy scratch (does anyone have any information on that? Punishment? Motivation?) Anyway, these are the three to watch tonight.  Let's go Stars, Hurricanes, and Maple Leafs!

Avery and the Stars manhandled by Brodeur and Co.

Well, Avery sure didn't have much to say after this game.

Brodeur earned his 98th shutout of his career, 5 away from Sawchuk's 103 as the Devils rocked the Stars at the Rock, 5-0.  He also earned his 543'rd career victory, 8 away from Roy's 551.

For the first time in a while, the Devils were complete shutdown, both offensively and defensively.  The Stars had two, maybe three good scoring chances all game.  As far as Avery goes, he was a non factor in most cases.  He didn't start much, but Clarkson must've offered to fight him at least three times.  He got knocked down a few times, and Brodeur had his way with him, so both goals were accomplished: Win the game, and mess with Sean Avery.

I was at the game, and even though the attendance was only 12,201, it was loud in that building.  Countless Avery chants. 

The Flyers lost to the Sharks in a shootout, 7-6.  The Flyers, who come into Newark on Friday, are winless in 6 games, going 0-3-3 in those 6.

 

STANDINGS:

Rangers: 6-2-1 13 Pts

Devils: 5-1-0 10 Pts

Penguins: 4-3-1 9 Pts

Islanders: 2-3-0 4 Pts

Flyers: 0-3-3 3 Pts

In other games, the Senators were upset by the Panthers 3-1 in Ottawa, as Florida scored 2 1st period goals.

The Red Wings got a 3-0 lead, and the Blues rallied to come within a goal in the final period, but the Red Wings scored again and ultimately won the game in St. Louis, 4-3 to move into first place in the Central. 

Devils meet Avery again tonight, 1 other division battle.  3 other games as well, one Central division showdown

Avery will return to the Rock tonight, as the Stars visit the Devils at Prudential Center.  This is the first of seven real important games for the Devils, without their two big free agency signings in Holik and Rolston.

My opinion: Avery is going to get wrecked.  And we're gonna win 3-1 to shove it in his face so he can't say anything after the game.

In divisional play, the Flyers are playing host to the Sharks tonight.  The Flyers are still looking for their first victory of the season. 

The Red Wings will visit the Blues in St. Louis, to decide who gets first place in the papers tomorrow.  The Blues currently have 8 points, with the Red Wings at 7. 

Two other games on the schedule tonight include the Senators hosting the Panthers, and the Oilers hosting the Blackhawks.

Let's hope for Avery flat on the ice, and Lets Go Devils!

No games of importance tonight

Pretty much just a standings update.

Rangers: 6-1-1 13 Pts
Devils: 4-1-0 8 Pts
Penguins: 3-2-1 6 Pts
Islanders: 2-3-0 4 Pts
Flyers: 0-3-2 2 Pts

First off, OK, the Rangers are off to a good start, I'll admit that.  I just don't think they have the pieces to last 82 games. 

And the Flyers 0-5?!? Wow. Didn't expect that one, either. 

Let me get to the Devils now.  4-1 over the first five games is pretty damn impressive.  The next 7 are crucial (6 at home, 1 in Philly).  As a fan, I should expect them to win the next seven, as they are games the Devils either have the edge in, or should be pumped enough to face to beat. 

The Devils 11-1 to start the season?  Doesn't seem very likely, especially with the Devils history of getting off to rather mediocre starts the past few years.  But we can hope! 

Rolston scores the GW, but injured in game as well

The Devils defeated the Thrashers in a rather defensive game, 1-0.  Brian Rolston scored his first of the season, but got injured later in the game as he lost his edge and crashed feet first into the boards.

From what I hear, it's a high ankle sprain, and could be out for a couple weeks.  Remember this high ankle sprain is the same thing which ailed Crosby last season.  I've heard anywhere from a couple of weeks, to a couple of months.  And that's scary, considering the Devils have a big stretch coming up, 6 of 7 at home, and the one on the road is against divisional rival Philadelphia.  Even if it is a couple of weeks, he's almost certain to miss that whole stretch of games.

Which means, who do the Devils replace him with?  The popular name has been Petr Vrana, whom I don't know much about except for looking at some scouting reports.  Last season in AHL he scored 20 goals, had 41 assists in 80 games.  He's a good puck mover, and good on the man advantage.  Fast skater as well.  Might as well give the kid a shot, in my opinion. 

Brodeur picked up his 97th career shutout, 6 shy of Sawchuk's 103.  His 541st win puts him 10 away from Roy's record.  I'd like to think Brodeur could break the shutout record this season. 

Around the division, the Penguins blew a 3-0 lead at home to the Capitals and lost 4-3.  The Islanders won 4-3 in overtime off a game winning goal by Trent Hunter, his second of the night.  The Flyers lost in Colorado, 5-2.  The Flyers remain winless, now 0-3-1.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 5-1-0 10 Pts
Devils: 3-1-0 6 Pts
Penguins: 2-2-1 5 Pts
Islanders: 2-2-0 4 Pts
Flyers: 0-3-1 1 Pt

Devils in ATL tonight, 3 other divisional teams play

The Devils will look to get their 3rd win of the season tonight, as they play the Thrashers.

The Thrashers are nothing special, offensively or defensively.  This is a big opportunity for the Devils to break out and maybe get something going.  I'm excited to see exactly what was done with the power play, and if it worked.

I'd assume Brodeur is in net tonight.

Around the division, Crosby will welcome Ovechkin and the Caps to Pittsburgh as they face off.  The Islanders go south to Tampa to face the Lightning, while the winless Flyers take on the Avalanche in Colorado.  The Rangers are the only team in the division off tonight.

Rangers no longer unbeaten; Montreal wins home opener via shootout

The Rangers finally have a loss on their record, as they lost to the currently unbeaten Sabres 3-1 at MSG last night. 

I got into an argument with a Rangers fan when I said the Devils would do better than the Rangers overall this season, and that I'd put 50 big ones on it. and he said I was being foolish with  pride, then I said this:

Yes, 50 bucks the Devils do better.

Don't fool yourselves into thinking the Rangers are some kind of super powerhouse. Say all you want how good the Rangers were against the Devils, but I dare you to give me the Devils record when they didn't play the Rangers, and the Rangers record when they weren't playing the Devils. I know it, and I'm sure you'll look it up, but you won't post it. So I will:

Devils: 45-29.
Rangers: 35-39.

If the Rangers played the Devils 82 times this year (it's only five more times by the way, not seven) then you're probably right. But since the Rangers can historically only seem to come to play when the Devils are in town, I think my money's safe.

No answer yet, but I'll be sure to humor you with the one he concocts later on in the evening.

Anyway, no change to the standings in the Atlantic:

Rangers: 5-1-0 10 Pts
Penguins: 2-1-1 5 Pts
Devils: 2-1-0 4 Pts
Islanders: 1-2-0 2 Pts
Flyers: 0-2-1 1 Pt

One big game in the Atlantic tonight, 4 others play as well

The only important game on the schedule for Devils fans tonight is the one between the Sabres and the Rangers, who are looking to go 6-0-0 for the first time ever.  The Sabres are 2-0-0 themselves, but the Rangers are flying high.  It'd be nice to see Buffalo drag them back down to earth a little bit.

One other divisional game tonight features the Canadiens home opener against the Boston Bruins.  Other games around the National Hockey League tonight feature the Coyotes visiting the Blackhawks, the Predators at the Stars, and the Oilers in Anaheim to face the Ducks.

LETS GO SABRES!

Devils woes from last season continue on

2-12 the past 14 meetings.

No, it's not the Mets record in September.  It's the Devils record since the beginning of the 2008 season against the Rangers, and it continued last night as the Devils got not only outscored, but outplayed and outhustled by the Rangers and got blown out 4-1. 

What Sean Avery did last season is what Aaron Voros did last night, scoring 2 goals off deflections because he forced his way in front of the net and blurred Brodeur's vision.

The only good news to come out of this day was the Flyers lost to the Canadiens, 5-3.

 

STANDINGS:

Rangers: 5-0-0 10 Pts

Devils: 2-1-0 4 Pts

Penguins: 1-1-1 3 Pts

Islanders: 1-2-0 2 Pts

Flyers: 0-2-0 0 Pts

Devils face last season's kryptonite; 2 other divisional teams play

The Devils, who were 2-11 against the Rangers all of last season, will look to start fresh this year and beat the Rangers on their home ice.

I'm sure the Sean Avery-less Rangers will be an easier task, but the Rangers are indeed 4-0, doubling the Devils 2-0.  If we can protect Brodeur and be more physical than last season, I think we will be fine.

The Islanders got destroyed at home today, losing 7-1 against the Sabres.  Last year's best regular season Eastern Conference team, the Montreal Canadiens, will face the Flyers in Philadelphia.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 4-0-0 8 Pts
Devils: 2-0-0 4 Pts
Penguins: 1-0-1 3 Pts
Islanders: 1-2-0 2 Pts
Flyers: 0-1-0 0 Pts

Devils play in Pittsburgh home opener for 2nd of 3 divisional games, Rangers/Flyers clash, Islanders open Nassau for the season

The Devils first big test of the season will take place tonight, as they face off against the reigning Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference Champion Pittsburgh Penguins. The Devils scored 2 last night, and they're almost sure to fall in defeat if they do not score more than that tonight. 

Pittsburgh's an offensive powerhouse, with the likes of Crosby and Malkin.  Devils defense needs to be on top of things or this could get ugly.  Do everything we're supposed to do, and that will equal a victory. 

And no, Kevin Weekes will not start tonight.

Around the division:

The Rangers will take their 3-0-0 record into Philly for their home and season opener tonight.  For once, I'm rooting for Philly to take it.

The Islanders host their home opener tonight as the St. Louis Blues visit in their second game of the season.

STANDINGS:
Rangers: 3-0-0 6 Pts
Devils: 1-0-0 2 Pts
Penguins: 1-1-0 2 Pts
Flyers: 0-0-0 0 Pts
Islanders: 0-1-0 0 Pts

Around the league:

There are a few divisional games played tonight. 

Montreal vs. Toronto- 7:00 PM
Atlanta vs. Florida- 7:00 PM
Carolina vs. Tampa Bay- 7:00 PM
Los Angeles vs. San Jose- 10:00 PM
Vancouver vs. Calgary- 10:00 PM

Devils stick it out in Home Opener; Rangers stay undefeated to own Atlantic Division for another day

Starting off, I hate how the shuttle buses don’t run to the arena anymore. Now you gotta get off the train, go on the light rail, walk all the way through Penn Station and get there. It’s not fun, and it takes longer. Budget cuts my ass. I can’t blame the Devils, as it has to be a city thing, so BOOOO NEWARK!

Good intro, I liked using the bon jovi “I Love This Town” for the video. I gotta say, I got a little emotional (not tears, just very excited) that everyone was back at the Rock. It feels like home, more than any other arena I’ve been to. Last season was a blast, tons of memories.

A shoutout to those “ZACH ATTACH” girls in section 232. You guys were loud and.. lookin good. That’s all a hockey fan can ask for.

On to the game, the Devils “O” looked a lot like last season. Dump and chase, beat the defense to the puck, and work from there. But it scored us enough goals to win- tonight. Gotta keep it up! Make my prediction of a 50 win season stand up

A few more thoughts on the whole experience at the arena:

-The seats priced over $65 have to be slashed. The goal balcony’s were packed (I was in 105). The upper deck was ridiculously packed. Not one empty seat up there. But the lower bowl and the mezzanine seats were 60-70 percent full? Not good enough for a home opener.

-The dude in the green body suit? Was there a need for that?

-I thought the dancing guy in the stands (obviously hired help) was a good way to stir some noise up in the lower bowl for a change.

-Why are Rangers fans at OUR home opener? Shouldn’t you guys be at the game at MSG, no more than a half hour away?

Speaking of the Rangers, they won 4-2, to move to 3-0-0 on the season.

Here are the up to date standings in the sure to be competitive Atlantic Division.

NY Rangers: 3-0-0 6 Pts
NJ Devils: 1-0-0 2 Pts
Pittsburgh: 1-1-0 2 Pts
Philly: 0-0-0 0 Pts
NY Islanders: 0-1-0 0 Pts

HOME OPENER TONIGHT!!!

2 big games on the schedule:

Blackhawks/Rangers
Islanders/Devils

LETS GO DEVILS!!

Hockey gets off to official start tonight!

4 games on the schedule tonight gets the 08-09 NHL schedule off to a start tonight.  The Red Wings will raise their banner (I suppose) tonight as they host the Maple Leafs. 

The two rivarly games of the night feature the Calgary Flames visiting the Vancouver Canucks, and the Ducks visiting the Sharks.  In some inter-conference action, the Bruins start out on the West Coast as they face the Avalanche.

Toronto-Detroit and Boston-Colorado will be on Versus tonight.

Lightning, Senators looking to gain first win of season and give Rangers, Penguins first loss

As we speak, the Lightning lead the Rangers 1-0 at the first intermission. It'd be nice to see them keep the Rangers at 2 points going into the more official start of the regular season.

Same with the Senators against the Penguins.  I like the Senators chances because I don't think they'll let themselves go 0-1-1, they're just too good and proud.

Both Atlantic teams get off to fast starts

Unfortunately, both Atlantic Division teams won yesterday, both by one goal.  Brandon Dubinsky had the GW goal in the third period for the Rangers, and Tyler Kennedy had the OT goal for the Penguins.

Atlantic Division:
Pittsburgh: 1-0-0 2 Pts
NY Rangers: 1-0-0 2 Pts
New Jersey: 0-0-0 0 Pts
Philadelphia: 0-0-0 0 Pts
NY Islanders: 0-0-0 0 Pts

First day of the season!

When it begins to get cold out, that can only mean: time for hockey season in New Jersey.  Unfortunately, the Devils don't play today, actually not until Friday.  The two games in Europe that open the season today are the Rangers/Lightning, and the Penguins/Senators.

It's a little hard to preview these games in the beginning of the season, but I'd just like to put my opinion out there about the opening games in Europe.  And that is: It Sucks.  Why should fans who really don't care about the NHL, get to see the Rangers opening game on their ice instead of Ranger fans?  And I hear Bettman wants to send more teams over there to open next season, give me a break.  It was fun ONCE, the first time it happened.  Now it's just getting old and making the true fans over here in North America feel separated from the beginning of the season. 

The Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist apparantly has cranky knees, so the Lightning better keep going at the pads trying to make him twist around and get uncomfortable.  They do that, they'll probably win.  Going to be interesting seeing all their new faces and how they coexist the first game.

Two of the best teams in the East, the Pens and Sens, will face off in Sweden at 2:30.  The Penguins are coming off an Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference Championship season.  The Senators are coming off another opportunity lost.

Welcome!

This Devils website will be in full force starting the first day of the NHL 08-09 season (October 4th).  To introduce myself, my name is Doug.  19 years of age, and a freshman at Sussex County Community College in Newton, NJ.  I've been a Devils fan since their cup winning year of 2000.  Their 2003 Stanley Cup win was and is the only championship season I've weathered as a fan of any sport. 

Anyway, here's what you can expect from my site:

-Day of game previews and reviews of ALL 82 Devils regular season games.  Including postseason games.
-Even when the Devils aren't playing, I'll post previews and reviews of the day in the league. 
-A few opinion pieces here and there.  I'm trying to find some other Devils fans to contribute, so if you would like to contribute at all, message me!

I'll talk to you all next weekend.  LET'S GO DEVILS!