Trick Or Treat

It's Halloween 2011. And with the gobly fun, comes the end of October for our Battle teams. Well, albeit for one club with the Rangers hosting the Sharks later tonight- still without a home win at the renovated MSG.

Outside of a halfway decent start for the Sabres, the first month didn't treat anyone great. The Devils and Rangers are .500 in Bettman's league while the Islanders one under. All three have been punchless, combining for 58 goals or basically, a shade over two-per-game. Cue the ghosts and goblins howling above as day turns to night in a creepy hemisphere that saw snow fall before All Hallow's Eve- wreaking havoc in towns due to fallen trees. So much for global warming.

It's still hard to fathom that we got a few inches of the white stuff, setting records that even meteorologists never dreamed. Perhaps that can better explain the morbid state of the metro area's hockey teams, where offense has vanished into thin air. At least Buffalo's 6-4-0 with 29 goals nearly good for three-a-game despite a poor finish- blowing a one-goal third period lead to the surprising Panthers. Yes, maybe I and a lot of other skeptics were dead wrong mocking Dale Tallon's unorthodox approach- ignoring a great hire in Kevin Dineen, who has Hawks South playing a rambunctious brand of hockey we'd kill for. Time to put our Michael Myers and Jason masks on and awaken our teams.

COLD OCTOBERS

Ilya Kovalchuk 2 Goals, -5
Brandon Dubinsky 0 Goals, 41 PIM
Kyle Okposo 0 Goals, 18 SOG
Tyler Ennis 0 Points
Adam Larsson 0 Points, -4
Artem Anisimov 0 Goals, 8 SOG
Blake Comeau/Josh Bailey 0 Points, -4, 10 SOG
Ville Leino 1-1-2, -4, 5 SOG
Mattias Tedenby 0 Goals, 9 SOG
Derek Stepan 0 Goals
Brian Rolston 0 Goals
Derek Roy 1-3-4
Martin Brodeur 2 GS, Missed last 7 games
Steve Eminger -7 rating
Rick DiPietro 2 GP, 1 GS along with bizarre shootout relief appearance, Missed 7 games
Jordan Leopold 1-1-2

We could easily include a few more who turned into pumpkins, including John 'Re'Tortorella, whose mysterious line combos had Ranger fans questioning if it was Tom Renney in disguise. It'll be interesting to see what his Prucha treatment of Sean Avery will cause with the anticipated return unless a team claims him off re-entry waivers. Doubtful.

So, will Connecticut Whale recall Andre Deveaux wear a mask tonight when he debuts as a Blueshirt tonight? Assuming Tort has the guts to dress him. Amazing that Christmas ornament Erik Christensen somehow remains. And the D seems to be suffering from the Curse of Marc Staal. If only there was a doctor around like in Dark Shadows to cure Barnabas Collins. Trick Or Treat!



HAPPY HELLOWEEN

Around The Horn: Isles, Devils get first wins

Twenty-four hours later, I'm sure panic has been replaced by calm for both Islander and Devil supporters, whose teams each posted their first wins of the new season on Columbus Day. Ironically, the old Patrick rivals each hosted special Columbus matinees at 1 and got the desired result that disappointed fans had anticipated on Saturday. Both clubs were flat in their season debuts each getting shutout. Something you rarely see. How often do two locals open up without scoring even a goal? We'll bet it hasn't happened much if ever.

The Islanders and Devils each responded with stronger performances yesterday. On Long Island, Jack Capuano's bunch made two early goals stand up in a 2-1 win over Minnesota while in Newark, new captain Zach Parise's first two goals along with Ilya Kovalchuk's game decider pushed the Devs past Carolina 4-2- earning new coach Pete DeBoer his first win.

"Winning is always good. It's always a good feeling," noted Parise, who notched his first two goals since last Oct.23, 2010. "I just think you can tell tonight was just a better team effort for us. We were hungry on the puck. We were winning a lot more battles, and by doing that we were able to get a lot more offensive zone time. You can tell when we're playing well, we're doing things right: Our D are jumping in at the right time, our forwards are covering for the D. We're not throwing the puck away. If we can identify that that's when we have all our pressure, we'll be all right."

Twice, the Canes rallied from one-goal deficits to make it anyone's contest after two. Following Parise's first of the season from reunited Czechs Patrik Elias and Petr Sykora, Carolina used a relentless forecheck to draw even when ex-Leaf Alexei Ponikarovsky deflected a Tim Gleason shot off Andy Greene past Johan Hedberg. DeBoer's club quickly replied 40 seconds later when Kovalchuk set up Mark Fayne's first. Undeterred, the Hurricanes tied it again on a fluky Chad LaRose shot from the right circle that fooled Hedberg. Before the period concluded, a Kovalchuk gaffe nearly beat his own goalie when an attacking Cane reached in with the Russian dangerously close to Hedberg. But his long-time 'mate from Atlanta was alert, allowing fans to relax.

Kovalchuk made sure to put the puck in the right net when he cashed his own rebound off a nice combination from Jacob Josefson and Nick Palmeiri. Parise's empty netter salted it away. The stars were the Devs' best players with Parise netting two goals, Kovalchuk finishing with a goal and two helpers while Elias and Sykora each added an assist. Palmeiri also had two helpers and Hedberg made 24 saves.

The Islanders used two first period tallies from Andrew MacDonald (PPG) and Frans Nielsen to even up their record at 1-1. MacDonald slammed home a Travis Hamonic rebound that caromed out to put the Isles on the board. A couple of minutes later, a brilliant pass from new captain Mark Streit allowed Nielsen to neatly deflect home his first. It was the kind of vision that the club missed last year from Streit, who made a great read from the left point, finding Nielsen all alone for what turned out to be the game-winner.

Capuano had to like what he saw from Al Montoya, who made his second consecutive start. The former Ranger No.1 pick was sharp making 20 saves, including a couple of sparklers late in the second when the Wild applied pressure. One-time Blueshirt Matt Cullen broke up the shutout 73 seconds into the third when he beat Montoya high glove thanks to a nice set up from Guillaume Latendresse. A couple of minutes later, Montoya denied new Wild Dany Heatley in front to preserve the lead. The Islander D did the rest, standing up to Minny's tactics, to earn their first 'W.'

"We kept it pretty simple in the first period," pointed out Streit. "We advanced the puck in straight lines, we got it deep and we went to work. That's how we're going to be successful, and we got away from that in the second and third periods. We did what we can't do. … We have to make sure that doesn't happen again."

The Islanders and Devils each have two days off before returning to action. The Isles host Tampa Bay and the Devs take on the Kings, fresh from their Euro invasion on Thursday. The other New York teams who participated overseas play later this week with undefeated Buffalo (2-0-0) hosting the Canes while the winless Rangers (0-0-2) visit Nassau County Saturday.

A Mixed Bag: Drury, Islanders, Zajac, Rick Rypien

With less than 10 days left in August, hockey's around the corner with Traverse City getting underway in the second week of September, just as the U.S. Open finishes. Yes, I'm a huge tennis fan who follows the grand slams and can't wait for it to kick off next week. Once the first ball is served, you know our sport's finally on deck. By show of hands, who can't wait? The #IsItOctober trend on Twitter's been increasing by the minute. For yours truly, it's all about September with the big prospect tournament that MSG airs along with training camps and preseason.

With the NFL also two weeks away with the first Sunday set on the Tenth Anniversary of 9/11, it's going to have extra significance for everyone. There's so much going on that Opening Night will be here before you know it. Personally, this is my favorite time of year with summer fading away while leaves change colors and school restarts. That might not be so thrilling for some of you. But I'm becoming a substitute teacher and am looking forward to a new challenge just as our hockey teams prepare for their own.

A lot's happened lately. So, let's try to cover it:

1.Chris Drury Retires- For most observers, it isn't a surprise that one of America's finest hockey players called it a career due to a chronic knee issues. Of course, it came after the Rangers bought our former captain out, clearing room. Whatever happened to Dru the past two years, it's easy to forget that he was one of our best performers in Years 1-2, averaging a shade over 23 goals with nearly half the production on the power play while also averaging over 56 points. Sure. It wasn't the 37 markers or 69 points the former Little League World Series Trumbull, Connecticut hero put up in his final season in Buffalo- haunting us with a tying goal in Game Five. However, what gets lost is that was his best statistical year, coming on a much more talented squad that advanced to its second consecutive Conference Final. Drury was never about stats but rather intangibles like winning faceoffs, outhustling opponents on the PK and making the right play. Don't forget he had a knack for scoring big goals as a good chunk (47 of 255 goals) backs up. The Avalanche don't win a second Cup without Captain Clutch. A hardworking, well respected player loved by teammates and peers, who poured overwhelming support last week. Over 12 seasons, he handled himself like a true professional. The 615 points (255-360-615) in 892 games are a good measuring stick for any third round pick, originally drafted by Quebec in '94 (72nd overall). I think everyone will agree that if Brandon Dubinsky or Ryan Callahan come close to those figures, the Rangers just might not wait another 37 years for Cup No.5. Congrats to Chris Drury on an outstanding career!

2.Islanders- No matter what they're involved in, chaos is the buzz word when it comes to the Islanders. So, Charles Wang's referendum failed. For now, the Isles were supposed to concern themselves with the upcoming '11-12 season, commemorating the franchise's Forty Year Anniversary. One which is filled with promise thanks to a young nucleus led by John Tavares. Instead, the Isles found themselves mixed up in another controversy involving one of their Top 10 games last season. This past Friday, they were expected to hold a Viewing Party to air the club's 9-3 melee-induced 2/11 win over the Penguins. However, due to opposition from a Pens blog and even the league, the organization decided against showing the bloodshed. Instead, they substituted one of their most exciting wins over the Sabres that occurred two days later- a 7-6 treat that featured a hat trick from Calder runner-up Michael Grabner, who finished third behind Jeff Skinner and Logan Couture. It's understandable why there was some resentment to showing such a game. While it was quite entertaining with Jack Capuano's club exacting revenge on the Pens for their cheap antics in a prior match that included laughing from the Pittsburgh bench after Rick DiPietro was concussed by Brent Johnson, the general consensus is that they went overboard- turning the third period into a circus. Given the sensivity to violence, the Islanders made the right decision here. Besides, the combined 13 goals in what was a seesaw battle between two Battle rivals, was a better game.

3.Travis Zajac Injury- The Devils were dealt a significant blow when it was learned that top center Travis Zajac tore his achilles during a training session. He's expected to miss at least the first month and possibly half of November. Considering the club's recent history with injuries, figure the Devs to use caution, which could mean Zajac doesn't return until December. How that impacts them under new coach Pete DeBoer remains to be seen. Considering that they subtracted Brian Rolston to save cap space, New Jersey is pretty thin up the middle with Patrik Elias probably shifting to center the top line. Elias has had success there and could find chemistry with a healthy Zach Parise, who's in his final year before potentially testing the market. The question is how will DeBoer handle the loss. Last year, Parise and Ilya Kovalchuk couldn't co-exist. It probably makes sense to split them up, balancing out the lines. If say you keep complement Nick Palmeiri with Kovalchuk and substitute Dainius Zubrus, it would allow Elias and Kovalchuk to perhaps team with David Clarkson, who could provide the meat and potatoes while Swede connection Jacob Josefson and Mattias Tedenby remain on the third line. That assumes Clarkson reestablishes himself. Keep an eye on prospect Adam Henrique, who should get an extended look with Zajac out.

4.The NHL is mourning the loss of Rick Rypien, who was found dead at his Alberta home last Monday. The popular tough guy, who took on all comers despite his smallish 5-11, 190 pound frame, had battled demons off the ice. He took a leave of absence nine months ago to address personal issues. At age 27, another extended member of our family is gone too soon with many questions left as to why. That it came three months after Ranger enforcer Derek Boogaard passed away due to a mix of alcohol and the painkiller oxycodone, has raised concerns about player mental health. Rypien had dealt with depression. It's unfair to compare the untimely deaths of Boogaard and Rypien even though they were basically the same age with the Boogey Man passing away at 28. The former Canuck was excited to be returning to Manitoba where he starred for the Moose under current Winnipeg Jets Assistant GM Craig Heisinger. Like Boogaard, his death was a shock to the hockey community. To hear Vancouver GM Mike Gillis tell it, it sounded like Rypien was improving.

"Over the course of the last three seasons, we participated in a variety of different initiatives with him and we were all really close with him," Gillis expressed last Tuesday in Toronto. "We had an understanding of what we thought was going on and had a number of outside agencies involved in assisting us, and we felt we were on course.

We felt he was making progress in a lot of different areas. When he signed with Winnipeg, we were all really happy for him."

It's extremely difficult to think that two players we watched and cheered for are gone. The NHL definitely must put more emphasis on finding out why these tragedies happened. It's not good for the league and sports as a whole. Anxiety and Depression are serious issues that we are seeing more and more of with players taking time off to try to address these matters. Whether it's Substance Abuse or Mental, we tend to forget that these are people just like us with everyday problems. The more we learn, the better each league will be at helping treat their employees. Preventing future tragedies should be priority. Here's hoping things improve to the point where we don't have to eulogize another stunning death. Life's too short.

Analysis: SomeLikeItGreen's Battle Team

In yesterday's post, we wondered what an all Battle Team would look like. Selecting the best of the four Battle clubs (Buf, NJD, NYI, NYR) certainly isn't easy but I wouldn't have it any other way. As we discovered, one response had some interesting suggestions. Let's take a look at what SomeLikeItGreen came up with before I take my crack:

Kovalchuk-Richards-Gaborik

Parise-Zajac-Grabner
Vanek-Tavares-Callahan
Avery-Gerbe-Zuccarello


Streit-Ehrhoff
Leopold-Staal
Larsson-Myers


Lundqvist
Miller


Coach: Tortorella; Asst.: Ruff

Right away, they took the most talented scorers and put them with top center Brad Richards. I just don't know if there are enough pucks to go around to satisfy both Ilya Kovalchuk and Marian Gaborik. But it paints a dream scenario with the dangerous right-handed sniper on the left side and the just as potent lefty on the right for Richy Rich to set up. SLIG's second unit is intriguing, combining all the elements a good scoring line should have. You got size in Travis Zajac, grit and skill in Zach Parise, plus high potential in Michael Grabner, whose second half still marvels. This could be a potent unit with game-breakers. Plus Zajac's ability to win faceoffs and battles in the corners along with Parise's competitiveness would make them tough to contain on the cycle.
 
What's not to love about a third line of Thomas Vanek and Ryan Callahan centered by emerging star John Tavares? Even though his production hasn't been the same since that monster '05-06, Vanek's a better player now- more responsible defensively and unselfish. He's never had a legit No.1 to play with. Tavares is ready to put it altogether. We see at least a 38-39-77 third year. Then you have the hardest worker pound for pound in Callahan, who'll do anything to win. His offense improved to nearly a point-per-game, which should land the future Ranger captain a nice contract. A perfect complement to the skill of JT91 and Vanek, who can outwork opponents. 
 
SomeLikeItGreen's (SLIG) fourth line is based on potential featuring Sabre mighty mite Nathan Gerbe, who came on strong. There's also wildcard Mats Zuccarello, who early in his recall on Broadway demonstrated some deft stickhandling and underrated playmaking. MZA has a lot to prove this Fall. The pressure's on. Taking pest Sean Avery is sensible to create space for the two midgets. Sean's not exactly a giant but plays bigger by finishing checks and winning puck battles. He'll also drive opponents nuts. Especially around the edge of the crease. There's grit, speed and finishing ability.
 
The D is unique because I wouldn't have come up with any of those combos. Teaming Mark Streit and Christian Ehrhoff puts an emphasis on puckmoving blueliners who can get involved. It'd be interesting to see if Ehrhoff could cover for Streit when he pinches. Both certainly are capable of contributing but Streit's the more physical player, which is risky. If you want an attacking team, they'll supply it. Jordan Leopold and Marc Staal are more conventional, combining a solid skater with a defensive D. If anything, Leopold's proven to be underrated due to health. When on the ice, he's fully capable of producing while not looking out of place in his end. Staal is already one of the best defenders in the game, who uses his reach and skating to get pucks out. While his passing still needs work, he does have the ability to jump in if needed as a highlight reel shorthanded goal proved versus Pittsburgh. But that's not his job. He's far more comfortable playing in his end as opposed to pinching. So, this would be a solid combo. If you like youth/potential, then Adam Larsson and Tyler Myers have it all. A smooth skater who's sound overall in the Devil gem that can chip when needed, while Myers brings the lumber along with a potent shot that intimidates. In a few years, they could be the premier duo among BONY. Good thing they're not on the same roster.
 
SLIG opted to go with King Henrik over Miller Time in net. If you preach consistency, then I agree that Henrik Lundqvist certainly qualifies with 30-or-more victories every season since the lockout, along with Olympic gold. Not bad for a seventh round steal. Ryan Miller has more credentials, including a Vezina along with a heroic Olympic performance in defeat. He's also been to two Conference Finals. I guess it depends on who you prefer. Miller is far more aggressive challenging shooters while Lundqvist stays back in his net to protect his glove, which has improved. Both have a tendency to allow softies. So, it's a tough call.
 
Choosing John Tortorella over Lindy Ruff is interesting. I guess SLIG likes an all aggressive style, which forces the goalie to make game-breaking saves. If you want emotion, Tort's got it. He hates losing. Ruff's not that different, sometimes sounding off to protect his guys. But he's also a little cooler off the ice, which would probably help. Since we now know that Pete DeBoer is coaching the Devils, we'll take him over Jack Capuano to complete the staff. He's got more experience and did a respectable job with Hawks South. I like the defensive element he brings. Besides, you can't have three loud mouths. It just doesn't add up.
 
Since we decided to analyze SomeLikeItGreen's Battle Team, I'll hold off on mine till tomorrow. Here's the breakdown per each roster.
 
Sabres-6
Devils-4
Islanders-3
Rangers-7

Series Preview (8) NYR vs (1) Caps: Exciting finish sets up rematch

Finally, after a couple of days, I can try to make sense of what happened this weekend. I'm not going to lie. I never thought the Hurricanes were losing at home in front of some of the best fans with their season on the line. Full credit to Jack Adams candidate Guy Boucher and his overlooked Lightning who could surprise a few this Spring. Big kudos to the Rangers, who wouldn't go down without a fight in front of the Garden Faithful- coming back to earn an emotional 5-2 win over the enemy Devils.

Of course, the Devils wanted to end our season. Wouldn't you if it was the first time in 15 years you weren't in the playoffs and had a chance to beat your closest rival? So, it wasn't too surprising that the Devs came out strong thanks to a brilliant first period from Ilya Kovalchuk, who scored and set up both his team's goals, giving them a 2-1 lead with a rocket in the final 30 seconds. It's funny but as much as it was supposed to hurt that the Devils' best player scored a potential crushing goal late in the first, I just didn't feel that alarmed. Perhaps it was because I knew our team wouldn't give up when they haven't all season. As brutal as the loss to kryptonite Atlanta was, this was still do or die with the chance to put it all on Carolina. My feeling was, 'Let's beat the Devils and end on a high note. Whatever happens happens.'

That realistic approach made it easier to focus on the remaining two periods. Even the funny scalpers outside were discussing our fragile plight. None of it meant anything if the Blueshirts didn't respond one final time against a Hudson rival that beat us the last two times, intent on playing spoiler. What we got was the heart and passion that exemplifies what this team has been all about. It already was fun seeing much maligned captain Chris Drury, making like Willis Reed (sarcasm folks) to score his first of the season in quick reply to Kyle Palmieri's redirect. Ironically, when I learned he was returning, I tweeted that it wouldn't surprise me if he scored a big goal, which has defined his career. Sometimes, you just get a sixth sense. I was really happy for him. That it was also set up by Mats Zuccarello, who replaced Sean Avery, was even better. John Tortorella didn't stand pat, reinserting Drury, Zuccarello and opting for more mobile Matt Gilroy over gritty Steve Eminger.

The thing I admire about Tort the most is his willingness to change things up and make guys accountable. Even Marian Gaborik, who sat a long time in that humiliation in Game 81. The former Lightning coach who's won a Cup doing it his way, does it more by feel instead of by the book. That approach allowed us to come back against Boston just to reach Saturday. By not being afraid to mix and match, it's allowed our roster to get comfortable with each other. So, if he does it in the first round rematch versus Washington, they should be more familiar, making for an easier transformation.

Most encouraging were the five different goalscorers, including emerging freshman Ryan McDonagh, who picked a great time for his first career NHL goal- becoming the 19th different Ranger to score a deciding goal, epitomizing the kinda T-E-A-M they've been. Something that wasn't lost on Tortorella prior to getting help from his ex-team, who held off a late Carolina rally for a 6-2 win.

"We are doing things the right way, the way we are building this team. I think it is very important for this team to get in (to the playoffs) because that is part of growing as a team, getting that experience in the playoffs."

Now, that growth can continue for the sixth youngest team as they prepare for a Caps' team that's adjusted their style for the postseason. No longer is Alex Ovechkin just a one-way player but good in all three zones along with an improved D that features gifted rookie John Carlson along with Dennis Wideman, Scott Hannan and Jeff Schultz but could be without Mike Green, who's still recovering from a concussion due to a Derek Stepan elbow during the Rangers' 6-0 rout a couple of months ago. According to reports, Green has taken part in team workouts and is available for Wednesday. However, it's uncertain if he'll play.

The Blueshirts can't concern themselves with that. Instead, they'll march on minus emotional leader Ryan Callahan, who despite missing 20 games, tied with Gaborik for second in team scoring with a career high 48 points, including personal bests in goals (23), assists (25), power play goals (10) and game-winners (5). The latter two which he paced the club. No question they could use his physical presence in all facets, including the front of the net where goals could be at a premium. Washington rookie Michal Neuvirth had a superb year winning 27 games in 45 starts while posting a 2.45 GAA, .910 save percentage and four shutouts. If the Rangers get to him, '09 hero Semyon Varlamov is capable. So, while Henrik Lundqvist should give them an edge, it might not be as definitive considering the Caps' more defensive style.

Against the Devils, Drury, Wojtek Wolski, McDonagh, Extra Effort winner Brandon Prust and Vinny Prospal tallied. That kinda balance is exactly what the Rangers need to have a shot versus a talented top seeded Cap squad led by Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Alexander Semin, that also boasts a strong supporting cast featuring Mike Knuble, Brooks Laich, Jason Arnott, Jason Chimera, Matt Hendricks, Eric Fehr, Matt Bradley and dangerous rookie Marcus Johansson. Indeed, the Caps are formidable and will want to prove the two humiliations (7-0 and 6-0) are a thing of the past. The Rangers took the season series 3-1, also edging Washington in a shootout 2-1 thanks to budding soph Artem Anisimov.

This is a team we match-up well against. Perhaps because they play similarly despite more talent, the Rangers think they can win. Having Lundqvist on our side helps but it cannot turn into two years ago where Washington controlled throughout, wearing out our goalie who didn't benefit from Tortorella's blow up or the Sean Avery controversy. I still doubt we win anyway. This year's club is deeper and more together. Better equipped to go toe to toe with Washington, who actually scored five fewer goals (219) than us (224). Subtracting the do everything Callahan will be tough to replace. That's why it's imperative for Gaborik to forget his awful regular season and just focus on the playoffs. The Rangers need him to be a game breaker. I have faith in everyone else, figuring Dubinsky, Anisimov, Stepan, Prospal, Brian Boyle and Prust will lead the way. Speaking of Boyle, his scoring slowed down but his importance is huge because his line injects energy and plays defensively responsible against top scoring lines. Can they slow down Ovechkin, who found his groove late? Being able to forecheck will be key.

It remains to be seen who Tortorella will start in Game One. Wolski certainly earned it along with Drury. So, we're guessing Avery's out while a more skilled guy like Zuccarello gets his first crack at the playoffs. I could see him going back to Eminger over Gilroy but that would hurt our team speed. We'll see. Does enigma Erik Christensen have any goals in him? He's the unknown. The talent's there. In a series like this, he could make a difference. Does Tort dare reunite Christy with Gabby and Prospal, trying to catch Lightning in a bottle?

I think the best aspect of this team is our D which won't have to rely as much on Marc Staal and Dan Girardi thanks to the stellar play of rookie tandem McDonagh and Mike Sauer. I know Tort will lean heavily on our top pair but he must not shy away from sticking with what's worked. It's the unflappable play of McDonagh and Sauer, our toughest D since Beuke- who are just as responsible for where we are. If there are no jitters, that top four should be a strength. We have better quickness than Washington. Particularly if Tortorella goes with Gilroy to play with Bryan McCabe, who needs to be a factor on the power play.

What I'd Like To See:

Dubinsky-Anisimov-Zuccarello
Prospal-Stepan-Gaborik
Prust-Boyle-Fedotenko
Christensen-Drury-Wolski

Staal-Girardi
McDonagh-Sauer
McCabe-Gilroy

Lundqvist


Who Concerns Me: Johansson cause he's a different player who has sick moves and is extremely dangerous. Our team is familiar with how to defend the Caps' Big Three. Johansson could be an X-factor along with gritty types Laich, Knuble, Arnott, etc. The Caps' depth hurt us last time.

What Must Happen: Big series for Gaborik, Dubinsky, Prospal, Anisimov, Staal, Girardi and Lundqvist.

Under Radar: The Boyle line has been a constant throughout. Their play will play a huge role in this series. Keep an eye on Stepan, who finished strong and looks poised for a good first round.

Special Teams: Power play and penalty kill are always important. Staying disciplined against the Caps is a must, even if we don't know how effective Green is if he goes. Let Lundqvist see the shots.

Intangibles: The Caps have something to prove, intent on finally reaching the Cup. The Rangers lost to them two years ago with at least seven players experiencing an excruciating loss. The longer the series goes, the better our chances.

Prediction: Minus Callahan, it'll be difficult to replace what he brings. This is the type of series he'd be huge in. I really believe we win if No.24 plays. I just feel too many things have to break right for us to prevail.

Caps in 6

Vote on our new Devil Poll

Not long ago, the Devils were a laughingstock having won only 10 of their first 41 games. Now, they've won 18 of 22 (18-2-2) climbing within new NHL .500. They still trail the stumbling Rangers by 10 points for the final playoff spot with 19 games remaining. With Carolina defeating the Sabres in one of those dreaded three-point games, the Hurricanes passed the Rangers for seventh with 71 points while Buffalo climbed to 68. The Devils sit 12th and must still quantum leap the slumping Thrashers and sizzling Maple Leafs, who posted a 3-2 overtime win over the Flyers last night to reach 67.

Three of the competing clubs are in action later tonight with the Devils taking on the Penguins while the Rangers visit Ottawa and Carolina tries to cool off Chicago. New Jersey has extra games left, which could allow them to get even closer as the frantic race reaches its final month. They're the subject of our new poll. One we hope you'll vote on. On such an amazing run with the fitting slogan One Game At A Time, who's most responsible for the turnaround? Is it Jacques Lemaire or Ilya Kovalchuk? Perhaps it's Johan Hedberg or even Team MVP Dainius Zubrus. What about the resurgent Brian Rolston, who once again is performing under his favorite coach? Or perhaps it's overlooked rookie Mark Fayne, whose steady D and offensive contributions have made a difference. What about franchise all-time scoring leader Patrik Elias, who's been a model of consistency? Or just maybe it's former captain Jamie Langenbrunner, whose extinction coincided with this run from nowhere. :P

I wonder what our resident Jersey blogger Hasan thinks. Even if you dislike the Devils, you have to admit that this is unprecedented and deserves our attention. So, go vote or even comment below! We dare ya. ;)

New Year's Resolutions

As I sit here in this Huguenot Library, thoughts of the Islanders ending Sid The Kid's 25-game point streak are still fresh. Who'd have thought when I mentioned that the other day that it would be the once proud franchise which Sidney Crosby has victimized over and over that would finally put a halt to the streak and silence all the discussion prior to tomorrow's superhyped Winter Classic showdown versus Ovi's Caps?!?!?!?!?! Well, you know Mats Sundin is happy.

In all seriousness, it was a great run by the game's best player, propelling his Pens to the top of the league despite no games from Jordan Staal, who just might debut tomorrow in a unique setting at Heinz Field. Considering that the forecast calls for sub-50 temps with rain, there's still some doubt to whether it gets played. Does NBC shift it to tomorrow night or possibly Sunday? Per Twitter pal ScottyWazz, that's the window the network has for getting the 4th Annual Classic played. While Crosby and Alex Ovechkin have been front and center in the greatest rivalry known to mankind, not one iota about the 2nd Hockey Heritage Game to be played in Alberta with Calgary hosting Vancouver. It doesn't seem right. Especially how little respect our Canadian franchises get despite overwhelming support.

We get the importance of the Classic, becoming a larger than life signature event where the NHL gets to showcase its best in a unique setting, the way hockey was meant to be played. I also understand why NBC would want the two biggest stars going head-to-head for a ratings bonanza when they're going up against college bowl games. Canadian eccentric DanoSpun has been up in arms over the shocking development that the game again features teams in American markets. But if you're NBC as Battle originator Steve Lepore has mentioned, you must do what's best ratings wise. Though for such a marquee event, I do believe that an All Original 6 between the Rangers and either the Canadiens or Maple Leafs would work due to the classic rivalry along with the game's popularity. It's gonna draw. Whether the Rangers, Devils or Islanders get the game is another story. Especially in light of the dismal response to a blizzard that dumped over two feet of the white stuff.

With both the Devils and Islanders having early New Year's Eve games to close out 2010, what are your New Year's resolutions? Let's take a look at our list:

1.Martin Brodeur-a time machine
2.Henrik Lundqvist-a punching bag
3.Rick DiPietro-esurance
4.Jacques Lemaire-Big League Chew
5.John Tortorella-his own HBO show "Fonz The Hockey Coach"
6.Jack Capuano-a healthy roster
7.Charles Wang-a new arena
8.Ilya Kovalchuk-a DVD of his Thrasher highlights along with a new stick
9.Marian Gaborik-goals
10.John Tavares-a healthy Kyle Okposo
11.Garth Snow-a guide to good PR
12.Glen Sather-a Cuban for not screwing up yet and an Al Montoya bobblehead
13.Lou Lamoriello-a lifetime supply of Smuckers
14.Sean Avery-relevancy
15.David Clarkson-a DVD of highlights from last year and Anti-Avery Anxiety Med
16.Chris Drury-spiked Kool Aid
17.Patrik Elias-DVD from '06 1st round
18.Ryan Callahan-a Superman cape
19.Zach Parise-a much healthier 2011 and a raise
20.Brian Boyle/Brandon Prust-co-stars in the real life hockey version of Twins
21.Mike Del Zotto-DVD of rookie year and Bobby Orr DVDs
22.Travis Zajac-Zach Parise and Jamie Langenbrunner (ZZ Popps)
23.Mark Streit-make his season debut
24.Michal Grabner-more goals and a shout out to the Canucks for letting him go
25.Marc Staal/Dan Girardi-1st All-Star selections
26.Brandon Dubinsky-the creation of his own Dubi Dubi Doo line
27.Jason Arnott-Game 6 '00 SCF at Dallas
28.Kyle Okposo-some luck so he can finally breakout
29.Derek Stepan-the Calder Trophy
30.Mattias Tedenby-a center who can get him the puck
31.Michal Rozsival-Game 3 '07 Conf Semis vs Sabres along with shot tutor
32.Alex Frolov-a pep talk from Alexei Yashin and Valeri Kamensky
33.Derek Boogaard-a new chin and pair of pom poms
34.Dainius Zubrus-some hands to go with his heart
35.Islander fans-new owner who cares about on-ice product
36.Devil fans-'95, '00 and '03 DVDs along with Adam Larsson
37.Ranger fans-a free game for blizzard and a run to the Conference Finals
38.Gary Bettman-a voice therapist
39.Colin Campbell-Tom Cruise's Lt. Daniel Kaffee to grill him with Joe Pesci watching intently
40.Pierre McGuire-an iron trap sent from Michael Keaton's Beetlejuice character
41.NHL-HBO to cover a team entire season further illustrating why hockey is the best sport
42.WJC-for more people in The States to care about one of the greatest tournaments
43.Darren Pang-a photo op with Scott Hamilton and a chance to call the Stanley Cup
44.Kevin Weekes-a job with NBC
45.Jack Edwards-a bottle of Jack Daniels
46.Sam Rosen-Versus games during playoffs
47.Doc Emrick-a new book entitled, "Doc-Isms" featuring the unique terms he uses to describe our game
48.Howie Rose-a winning team and a press agent
49.Joe Micheletti-a full mirror
50.Chico Resch-a buffet along with role in hockey version of "Back To School"

Christmas Week Observations

Almost amazingly, we're about to celebrate a special time of year. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas bring out lots of Kool Aid smiles and holiday cheer. Even for this Jewish blogger who celebrated Chanukkah right before my birthday a couple of weeks ago, I admit to loving this festive time where anything seems possible. As passionate hockey bloggers, we are really fans first who root as hard as we can for our teams. Sometimes, you win and sometimes you lose. While we can go overboard at moments over some game a la yesterday's Giant choke against Mike Vick and Desean Jackson, it's worth pointing out that those of us who write about the sport we love are lucky. We all come from good families and have roofs over our heads. Imagine the great ordeal those less fortunate must go through everyday. Especially when it's ice cold.

So, while your teams may not be giving you much to cheer about, just remember it's not the end of the world. I can think of much worse things. We must appreciate every day we have because sometimes, you just never know. I lost a great friend earlier this year who was the kind of enthusiastic, happy go lucky person who made everyone around him better. It's still very difficult that he's not around. Many of our core only knew him for over a year but in that span, we discovered a special human being with amazing qualities, which made it feel like a lot longer. Every day, I think about you Lyndzay. You're always there. I love you.

Christmas is a time to be with ones you love and care about. A time to have fun and create new memories that we hold onto forever. Yes, we celebrated it when me and Justin were growing up. Many great moments that will never go away. I'm glad I can be around close friends that are like family. Being that we don't have much left, it means plenty. I'm real excited that Brian is coming in during the holidays. We will have more great times that to quote Sam Rosen, "Shall last a lifetime." If only I could get away from that year. Haha.

Other than the Rangers, this season hasn't treated Battle fans too kindly. As someone who sat through many forgetful nights during a brutal stretch that shall not be repeated, I can only sympathize with what Islander and Devil fans are going through. It's not easy. Sometimes, I wonder how we dealt with all the losing. All the jokes. NHL fodder. If that happened now, I don't think I'd tolerate it. In all those years, I can't ever recall the Rangers winning nine of their first 32 or losing 24 of 30 to start a season. To think the Islanders won four of their first seven before plunging like the great Stock Market crash in 1987. Not even the most negative Islander fan could've predicted that. The Devil start is well devilish and we don't mean that in a Satanic way. The numbers are so miserable that they're not worth repeating. At least Ilya Kovalchuk is scoring again. So, what do you say to our resident Devil writer who's not used to this? Stick it out. If anything, they keep losing and they're guaranteed to land a top 3 pick. For as poorly as Lou Lamoriello has handled the post-lockout cap, he's still got a solid Draft record. You know he won't sit still as the season slips away. Changes are a comin' in Newark.

Islander fans have been here way too frequently. Even that brief stretch where they made the postseason didn't produce a single first round triumph, meaning the once proud franchise of the Cup Dynasty (1980-83) has almost ceased to exist. There always seem to be distractions. Whether it's bad owners like John Spano or Charles Wang's Lighthouse fantasy to the mysterious dismissal of former PR man Chris Botta's credentials, it's always something. Of course, many could point to former GM Mad Mike Milbury for where they are. His trade of Roberto Luongo to Florida and drafting of Rick DiPietro are the stuff of legend. If only that were positive. Now, it's basically John Tavares by himself while Matt Duchene lights it up on a good Colorado team. Sure makes ya wonder if this team is hexed. I don't know what to say to an Islander fan. They have been put through so much that it makes James Dolan's Garden Empire look like the Yankees. Just root for your team and hope it turns around. They can't be this bad forever.

Meanwhile, it's not much better for Brian's Sabres who after an uninspired start, sit in 11th eight points behind eighth Boston. Part of it was rating Vezina winner Ryan Miller missing some games. He hasn't been as sharp either. Still, I can't think of a better netminder I'd want for one game. Miller is fully capable of getting hot and carrying this team to the playoffs. Thomas Vanek had a dreadful beginning but had turned it around recently scoring like the go to guy he gets paid to be. However, the club has dropped three of four and Vanek hasn't lit the lamp, posting only an assist while going a miserable minus-six. There was a horrible 6-2 loss at Florida in which Miller was bad as was their D. In the one win over the Bruins, classic tease Drew Stafford scored his third career hat trick. With underachiever Tim Connolly suffering a broken nose thanks to getting slammed hard into that unprotected rim Don Cherry always justifiably rants about, he'll miss the next two home games against Anaheim tomorrow and Florida later this week. Can a team that doesn't score many goals turn it around? Jason Pominville hasn't been the same since his concussion. They also need better from Tyler Myers. What to tell Bri who's been through this before? Not much. He's always echoed that management never does enough to make them a true contender. Off last year, it's hard to disagree.

Meanwhile, the Rangers don't play till Thursday. In their big showdown Saturday with the first overall Flyers, they fell 4-1, done in by ex-Ranger Nikolay Zherdev- who converted a breakaway out of the penalty box thanks to an amazing Mike Richards 125 foot outlet. It was another poor showing for sophomore D Mike Del Zotto, who misplayed a puck leading to the second goal and was out of position for another en route to a minus-three afternoon. What can be done about his play? He turns over the puck way too much and is weak around the net, making it harder on steadier partner Michal Rozsival. Who'd ever thought it'd get to that? Henrik Lundqvist couldn't be faulted unless you wanted to pin him for a rebound which Zherdev finished from an impossible angle, concluding the scoring. Marian Gaborik remained invisible while teamed with both Erik Christensen and Derek Stepan, who later was shifted to a different line and converted his ninth off a nice Alex Frolov feed. I don't get it. Gabby returns and outside of his second hat trick versus Edmonton, he's lifeless. Frolov has been much better since his trial with energizers Brian Boyle and Brandon Prust. Maybe it's time to stick Gaborik with them. Prust is like our mini-Cally. Tort needs to get Sean Avery more ice-time. Maybe reunite him with Gabby and Christy. Regardless of the result that was kind of tainted due to the refs taking away Dale Weise's first goal in an impressive debut that included a near miss and a win over pest Daniel Carcillo, the Rangers have made their fans happy this Winter. In a conference where there aren't many clearcut teams outside of the Big Four (Flyers, Pens, Caps, Habs), there's no reason our team shouldn't be playing meaningful hockey in the Spring. Once Ryan Callahan returns, they should be dangerous.

So, there's at least one team with a pulse as we get ready for stockings, presents and candy canes. There's still time for that to change. He's making a list. He's checking it twice. He's gonna find out who's naughty or nice. Santa Claus is coming to town. Or as The Boss would say:

Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa Claus is coming to toooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwnn!!!!!

Devils waive Rolston

The Devils finally made a move today, waiving veteran forward Brian Rolston. The 37 year-old Rolston who returned to New Jersey three years ago, has two years, $5.062 million remaining on his contract. In 15 games this season which was hampered by a sports hernia, the '95 Cup winner has two goals and two assists for four points.

Regardless if he clears waivers or retires, Rolston's salary will count against the Devils cap because he's over 35. TSN's Bob McKenzie who broke the story on Twitter, also notes that he can be put on re-entry waivers which might give a better chance of someone claiming him. They'd be on the hook for half the salary/cap hit.

For Rolston, this could be the end of the line for a gritty Team USA star who played in two Olympics ('02, '06) including the memorable silver at Salt Lake, falling to familiar face Martin Brodeur and Team Canada. In his second stint with the Devils, Rolston totaled 37 goals and 36 helpers for 73 points over 159 games. That included 16 power play goals and six game-winners. Unfortunately, he was a disappointment after huge success with Minnesota. But as so happens with many aging vets, their play levels off, which is why the deal never made any sense to begin with.

In what's become a trying season with New Jersey sitting 29th with just eight wins and 18 points in 29 games trailing eighth by 18, the finger has to be pointed at President/GM Lou Lamoriello, who for all his success erred in handing out too many contracts like Rolston's with many including no-movement clauses. Something which has been a theme in Hasan's posts. Henrik Tallinder has been an epic fail thus far, posting a minus-16 rating. But he's far from alone with megastar Ilya Kovalchuk stuck on five goals and 14 points with a minus-18. Leading scorer Patrik Elias has only lit the lamp six times and top center Travis Zajac (3-10-13) hasn't been the same since Zach Parise went down.

There haven't been many bright spots. Swedish rookie Mattias Tedenby has shown flashes but has cooled off. Anton Volchenkov has been steady since returning from a broken nose. Jason Arnott leads the club with nine goals but is hardly the same player who scored the most memorable goal in franchise history 10 years ago. Dainius Zubrus (4-8-12) tries but the harsh reality is that his salary ($3.4 M) is hardly a bargain. Captain Jamie Langenbrunner's struggles are well documented. What can Lamoriello do? Surely, he couldn't have predicted Andy Greene stuck on a club worst minus-19 or Kovalchuk firing blanks.

What does it mean for Parise, who turns restricted this summer a year away from potentially leaving the only place he's known? It remains to be seen if such a poor season will impact what Zach Attack does. He's their most important player. The Devils can't afford to lose him.

Waiving Rolston starts the process for a prideful GM who never gives up. Most definitely, the Devils are better off getting younger moving forward. The playoffs seem like a pipe dream. Uncommon around these parts since '95-96. For now, all the Devs can do is continue to play hard under first-year coach John MacLean. Their next chance to snap a five-game skid is tomorrow at home versus the Coyotes. The Preds visit Friday and then New Jersey goes to Atlanta to face one of those teams they're chasing. It's like chasing a dream.

Islanders end winless streak at 14

Islander scorer Jesse Joensuu is congratulated by Radek Martinek. His goal proved to be the difference in a 2-0 shutout of the Devils, helping the Islanders finally end their 14-game winless streak.

 
Finally, the Islanders had something to be thankful for. On the day after Thanksgiving, they defeated the Devils 2-0 before 10,897 at Nassau Coliseum, mercifully ending their winless streak at 14 (1-11-3). Rick DiPietro stopped all 29 shots including 13 in the third period for the club's first win since Oct.21 at Tampa Bay. Making his third consecutive start, DP was strong facing a Devil onslaught in the final 20 to preserve an emotional victory for interim coach Jack Capuano, who finally won his first game in five tries (1-2-2).

The Islanders built a two-goal lead thanks to unlikely scorers Jesse Joensuu and Rob Schremp, who entered with a combined one goal. Joensuu finished off a nice passing play 92 seconds in with Frans Nielsen and Michael Grabner assisting to give the Isles the lead. They outshot a flat Devil team 13-5. The Devil struggles continued. By the time Schremp buried a wrist shot past Johan Hedberg at 5:15 of the second, shots were 18-8 favoring the Long Island hosts. Blake Comeau and James Wisniewski notched helpers. Two players who've slumped during the franchise's second longest streak without a win. They avoided matching a 15-game winless streak (Nov.22-Dec.23, 1999).

New Jersey finally started to come on in the second half getting eight of the last nine shots in the second. However, they still trailed by a deuce headed to the third. John MacLean's team came out with more urgency in the final stanza, swarming the Islanders. They quickly peppered DiPietro with seven shots the first five minutes but couldn't solve the Islander franchise netminder, who was up to the task, sliding over to deny rookie Mattias Tedenby off a nice set up from Jason Arnott and Patrik Elias. He also thwarted Ilya Kovalchuk pointblank with the lost Devil $100 million man firing a rebound wide. Kovalchuk had a rough day taking a minor while having all four of his offerings shutdown by DiPietro. The 27 year-old Russian hasn't lit the lamp in six straight, registering only an assist with a minus-four rating. It's no secret that the Devs need better from their top sniper, who remains stuck on four goals. MacLean tried Adam Mair in place of rook Alexander Vasyunov on the right side. Mystifying.

In a period controlled by the Devils who had plenty of chances to get back in it including a botched five-on-three that probably left Hasan sick from the turkey and stuffing, they didn't come close. Despite a 13-1 SOG edge, it didn't matter. The Islanders did a good job sacrificing their bodies, blocking 27 shots including a half dozen apiece from stalwarts Mark Eaton and Radek Martinek. Sadly, the dozen they combined for were one better than the entire New Jersey roster. If you subtract Anton Volchenkov (3 blocks) and Patrik Elias (4), the rest of the 16 skaters had five, typifying what was missing from a team that came in on its first two-game win streak.

The Islanders were more desperate. Even in only taking two shots on Hedberg the last half of the contest, they won most of the battles. Under Capuano, they have been more competitive earning points against Atlanta and Columbus before finally breaking through to get the monkey off their backs. Maybe loaning Josh Bailey to Bridgeport after the third-year pivot went 13 straight without a point lit a fire to the rest of the club. They did the little things that win, playing more physical with 31 hits compared to the Devs' 14. Only one Islander didn't make the stat sheet. They needed to be on the Devils, especially when back-to-back penalties to Dylan Reese (interference) and Wisniewski (double-minor hi-sticking) gave their opponent a great chance to get back in it.

Instead, the Devils failed miserably, living up to their paltry road power play record of just one goal. Believe it or not, they rank pretty high at home. The five-on-three was discombobulated with the trigger man Jason Arnott instead of Kovalchuk. Twice, he missed wide with one even caroming out. Kovalchuk played the right side and was hardly a factor, getting one low one-timer through which DiPietro snuffed out. The Islander PK outworked the Devs, hustling to loose pucks and clearing them out when their foes didn't do it themselves with questionable decision making. Pumped up by their team's desperation, the crowd gave them a loud cheer when the second of Wisniewski's penalty was over.

It seemed to take the wind out of New Jersey's sails. They hardly tested DP the final six and a half, partially due to the Islanders' grit. As time wound down, it was finally over with an emotional DiPietro jumping up and down like a kid into the arms of happy teammate Zenon Konopka. He told Deb Kaufman how much the streak had weighed on them and pointedly thanked the fans twice for continuing to support them. A great day to be an Islander. Not so good if you were a Devil.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Rob Schremp, NYI (2nd goal of season, +1 in 20 shifts-13:57)
2nd Star-Mark Eaton/Radek Martinek, NYI (
1st Star-Rick DiPietro, NYI (29 saves incl. 13/13 in 3rd for 1st SHO of season-1st since Jan. also vs NJD)

Frustration boils over for Hudson rival

While Alex Frolov celebrates Brandon Dubinsky's goal, the looks on Travis Zajac and Johan Hedberg sum up Devil frustration in loss to Rangers last night.

When it comes to winning, there are no style points. Somebody might want to clue the Devils in following their latest disappointment- a 3-0 shutout defeat at the hands of their bitter Hudson rival, the Rangers last night at The Rock. The loss dropped New Jersey to 4-10-1 overall. They've yet to win at home falling to 0-5-1. The next opportunity comes four days from now against equally struggling Battle brother Buffalo, who also have yet to win on home ice.

Yes, the Devils competed for the most part unless you watched mega million star Ilya Kovalchuk basically watch as Brandon Dubinsky followed up a Todd White weird carom for the backbreaking shorthanded tally that finished the Newark hosts. The player Lou Lamoriello's building around also took a mindless penalty 15 seconds into the third. On a night his team desperately needed him to show, the former Thrasher played like he still was in Atlanta, partially responsible for all three goals against while finishing minus-two with four shots. The problem was none of the offerings fooled Henrik Lundqvist, who recorded his second shutout in three games, improving to 20-7-5 versus his favorite target.

“I thought we were the better team, dominating the play for most of the game, and then we don’t give ourselves a chance to get back in the third period,” an exasperated Patrik Elias said essentially throwing Kovalchuk under the bus. “We lost the game right there.”

“We played hard. We competed hard. We’re just not generating enough offense," first-year coach John MacLean echoed despite his team holding a 33-20 edge in shots. 

Remarkably, they trailed by two despite outshooting the Blueshirts 23-12 through 40 minutes. Something Devil buddy Rob "Kraze" Davis texted while I was watching Procal Harum. When you're going bad, this is what happens. One of the Ranger four first period shots went in with Dubinsky finishing off his ninth. The Devils took 11 but none found twine against Lundqvist, who was a vacuum a day removed from a forgettable showing in a 4-1 loss in Philly.

“After last night, it was important for me and for all of us to get a good solid game,” he said. “I don’t think we played all that bad, but I felt that I had to play a lot better.”

That's what you expect from your leaders. In this early season, the Rangers have gotten it from Dubinsky, Lundqvist, revelation Brian Boyle, Dan Girardi, Michal Rozsival, Sean Avery and Ryan Callahan, who missed last night with a sore neck due to a cheap Kimmo Timonen hit from behind. With injuries to Marian Gaborik, Chris Drury and Vinny Prospal, they've stepped up. By contrast, their archrivals haven't gotten any yet despite enough talent to push on without Zach Parise and an injury list that's growing as long as Pinocchio's. The Devils are still searching for an identity. While the 5-3 win over the Blackhawks temporarily cured their offensive fallacies, they simply couldn't carry it over against a better goalie. Part of the issue which Davis alluded to was the lack of bodies in front of Lundqvist. You have to be willing to pay the price.

"Lundqvist played a great game and we didn’t have any traffic in front of him,” Kovalchuk pointed out after remaining stuck on three goals. “All the shots were from outside, and you know we are not going to score like that.”

“We’re disappointed after a loss every time,” added Elias. “You cannot go into a hockey game down all the time. You have to clear your minds and go into a game with a clear head.”

It's never easy when you lose players. The Devils severely missed Anton Volchenkov, who finally returned Friday from a broken nose. The former Senator shot blocking specialist missed a dozen games. He's easily the Devs' toughest and should only bolster a blueline, which was without Colin White (flu). Young Swede Alexander Urbom was recalled from Albany. It's really tough to compete when half your back end consists of rookies. Matt Taormina has been a nice find and Olivier Magnan hasn't struggled as much as former Sabre Henrik Tallinder, who fans probably want to send over Niagara Falls. Maybe Volchenkov can boost Tallinder and Andy Greene, who's a team worst minus-12 following a breakout '09-10. Bryce Salvador won't return anytime soon. Neither will Anssi Salmela. That leaves Mark Fraser, who despite limited skills always is willing to go.

It'd be easier if Kovalchuk was finishing and Travis Zajac remembered who he was. Instead, they've combined for five goals and only 14 points with no power play goals. Jason Arnott, who's been benched at times- paces them with four markers. Elias remains in a funk stuck on two goals. Dainius Zubrus gives max effort every night but simply doesn't possess the hands. The captain everyone wants to get rid of, Jamie Langenbrunner actually is tied with Kovalchuk for the club lead with eight points. The stat lines are as ugly as it gets. Halloween already passed but you wouldn't know it in Jersey. Perhaps Jimmy Hoffa's ghost is at work.

Then there's David Clarkson, who continues to let Sean Avery get the best of him. For the most part, he tries. But as soon as he sees No.16, the Devil antagonist becomes possessed. He lost his head again taking a five-minute penalty for boarding Boyle, which erased any chance of a miraculous comeback. But hey. The way the Devils were firing blanks, it probably wouldn't have mattered anyway. You expect better from a player who seemed on the upswing not long ago. Twenty goals and 40 points seemed possible. Now, he finds himself stuck on one goal and one assist with a minus-nine and 34 penalty minutes. What happened? The same thing that's gone so wrong for the Devils thus far. The sum not equaling the parts. Langenbrunner on their ineptitude:

"It's getting frustrating. We all can read the standings and see where we are and the games we've played and the games in hand teams have on us and where we could be when it's all sorted out. But we can't concern ourselves with that so much. We need to find a way to get some wins ourselves, keep the effort where it's been, but learn to play a little bit smarter."

When Martin Brodeur doesn't suit up for the Rangers, something's wrong. Perhaps he just decided that extra rest would be wiser than rushing back from a bruised elbow that forced Johan Hedberg into action the other day. For his part, Hedberg wasn't bad despite only making 17 saves with a few sparklers which at least kept his team afloat. Chalk up the third goal to bad luck. You don't expect a deflected shot to take a funny carom back to Dubinsky, who was only too happy to tie Steven Stamkos and Patrick Sharp for the league lead in goals (10).

Sometimes, it's just not your night. Now, it's almost a month with the quarter mark approaching. Are the Devils really this bad? Well, to borrow a phrase Hasan used from Bill Parcells, "You are what your record says you are." They have nine points in 15 games, digging themselves an early hole along with Buffalo (8 in 14 entering tonight vs Toronto). Ironically, both trail first place by similar margins. The Devils are eight out while the Sabres trail by nine. There's plenty of season left to make up ground. It has to start soon.

Brodeur and White out, Rangers put Todd White on waivers

The second Hudson Battle is two hours away. Though I won't see any of it due to a Procal Harum concert in Westbury with Dad. They're a great 60's group that's part of that British wave. Should be fun.

As for tonight, the Devils look to make it two in a row. Can the newly formed Kovalchuk-Zajac-Langenbrunner line do damage? They'll be banking on their top two lines, including Elias-Arnott-Clarkson if they want to get a 'W' against the visiting Rangers, who enter off a 4-1 disappointment at the hands of the Flyers. With King Henrik in net and Tort disliking his team's effort, figure them to be ready.

It will be odd without Martin Brodeur, whose bruised elbow suffered the other night keeps him out against his favorite nemesis. Johan Hedberg gets the call. Don't be surprised if he plays well. He has a history of stoning the Rangers. By no means will it be easy. The Devs are also without Colin White but get Anton Volchenkov back. That's a nice trade even if White is still a good team guy who plays hard. Andy Greene notched his second in the win over the Hawks. Keep an eye on him and rookie Matt Taormina. Either Stephen Gionta- younger brother of Brian- will make his NHL debut or Patrick Davis will be in for John MacLean.

With the Rangers waiving Todd White (no shock), it looks like they'll go with the same lineup as last night with the Boogey Man back in fresh off his scrap with one-time Ranger Jody Shelley. Unless Ruslan Fedotenko can't go following Dan Carcillo's hit, there won't be any changes. Another game for Evgeny Grachev, whose size is evident. Can he provide a spark for slumping Derek Stepan? The Devils will concentrate on blanketing the Homegrown Line (Dubinsky-Anisimov-Callahan). With Avery-Stepan-Fedotenko broken up, there's not much else to concern themselves with. Especially as Russian enigma Alex Frolov continues to be stuck on two goals. One player to keep an eye on is Erik Christensen, who's been shooting more and playing better. Thus far, Dan Girardi and Michal Rozsival have been the club's best on the blueline. Is this the game Mike Del Zotto explodes?

We'll see. Figure it to be heated, intense and physical as well as emotional in the stands. Can't wait to catch the replay.

Parise leaves loss to Kings with injury

Things went from bad to worse for the Devils. During their latest defeat by a count of 3-1 to the Kings, homegrown star wing Zach Parise left the game with an injury following a collision with LA wing Kyle Clifford with 3:40 left in the second period. As WFAN radio tandem Matt Loughlin and Sherry Ross updated in the postgame, it's being termed a "lower body" injury.

Parise immediately flew back to New Jersey to be examined by team doctors. It could be potentially serious with it being a knee injury. Hopefully for No.9 and the Devils, they'll get more encouraging news.

"I didn't see him come out for the third. Hopefully it's nothing major," linemate Travis Zajac told The Ledger's Rich Chere. "Right now is not the time to lose a player like that."

Throughout a seven-year career, the '03 first round gem has been one of the most durable players in the league, only missing three games while becoming an All-Star. Arguably the best American, he became a folk hero with his dramatic tying goal that forced sudden death against Canada in the Vancouver Olympics. Even though Sidney Crosby broke USA hearts, the clutch goal along with a virtuoso performance in the tournament put Zach Attack on the radar. It followed up a breakout '08-09 season in which he established career bests in goals (45), assists (49), points (94), plus/minus (30), power play goals (14), power play points (30), shorthanded points (3), shots on goal (364) and matched his previous high in game-winners (8).


In 12 games this season including tonight, Parise was 3-3-6. Under first-year coach John MacLean, the team's struggled to find chemistry despite having Ilya Kovalchuk signed long-term along with '00 Cup hero Jason Arnott reunited with Patrik Elias. Regrettably, the Minnesota native entered Saturday tied with Arnott and Kovalchuk for the club lead in goals. After getting Jamie Langenbrunner's first and Elias' second in a 2-1 win over Anaheim Friday, they only got one against Jon Quick despite outshooting LA 20-4 in the third minus Parise. Surprise rookie defenseman Matt Taormina notched the only marker, putting him into a share of the lead with three. Before the Devils could attempt tying a game they trailed by two, Jarret Stoll scored 24 seconds later.

The Devils fell to 1-3-0 on the six-game trip with a pair of tough games against Vancouver tomorrow and defending Cup champ Chicago Wednesday. When they finally return home, the Rangers will be waiting for them.

Losing Parise for any stretch would be a crusher. Especially since he's a tireless worker who combines his speed and skill along with a great work ethic that makes him a fan favorite. The Devils are also still without defenseman Anton Volchenkov, who sat out a 10th straight game with a broken nose. He has begun skating and could return soon. They're probably holding the gritty ex-Senator out until the November 5 game versus the Blueshirts.

In the mean time, it'll be up to Kovalchuk who again was held off the board and booed roundly by Staples Center to pick up the slack. The electrifying Russian superstar finished with only two shots along with a minus-one rating in 20:18. It'll take a total team effort for New Jersey to turn it around. They'll enter Monday's contest at Vancouver with an East worst 3-8-1 mark for eight points, trailing only other Battle disappointment Buffalo who fell yet again 4-zip at Dallas.

As noted NJD blogger Hasan might say, something has to give.

Devils and Sabres in unfamiliar territory

I shouldn't be up but somehow am because my schedule has been wacky lately. Well, maybe not as out of whack as the Devils right now but yeah. They're not the only Battle club struggling as the Sabres are stuck on three wins in 10 games (3-6-1) just a couple of points clear of last New Jersey (2-7-1). With October about to close, two of the East's top three clubs just last Spring are in the basement trying to get going.

Even the biggest doomsday scenario couldn't have predicted this for half the Battle clubs. Especially when they boast two of the game's elite goalies. I'm not about to write off Martin Brodeur yet. He's gotten off to slow starts before. It's just that now his defense is AHL caliber without Anton Volchenkov and Bryce Salvador, who remains on LTIR with a concussion. Hell. As our resident NJD blogger Hasan alluded to, even Mark Fraser is missed. Between a matador D reminding us of some of those dreadful Ranger teams and lackluster starts from Travis Zajac, Patrik Elias, Jason Arnott and Jamie Langenbrunner, it's no wonder the Devs are where they are. First-year coach John MacLean must think he became one of Freddy's nightmares. Benching Ilya Kovalchuk legitimately due to tardiness for a team meeting and unable to find the right combos. Even Zach Parise only has three goals, which sadly is good for a tie for first on the club with Arnott. Can it get any worse? They'll look to get back in the win column tonight at Anaheim.

As for the Sabres, they haven't looked much better. Not even with rating Vezina winner Ryan Miller doing his part. In a 6-3 road loss to old rival Philly, their lack of attention to detail was disturbing. Sloppy turnovers led directly to odd-man rushes which the Flyers were only too happy to take advantage of. Even if Lindy Ruff's club made it interesting late, they know they must be more consistent to get out of this funk. Since defeating Ottawa in the season opener, they've dropped seven of nine. In particular, Tyler Myers is going through a rough patch in his second year, posting a team worst minus-nine rating. When Steve Montador is your most effective blueliner, that's a problem. Thomas Vanek has just begun lighting the lamp after another MIA stint. Let's be honest. He hasn't been the same since he signed that huge Oiler offersheet which Darcy Regier matched. One of the game's top talents should be putting up between 40-50 goals every season. Not going through funks which have Western New York scratching their heads. Only Derek Roy, rookie Tyler Ennis and Drew Stafford have performed. More is needed from Tim Connolly, Jochen Hecht and even Patrick Kaleta, who's been far too quiet. They're still missing Jason Pominville, whose status is uncertain due to a concussion.

On a day in which both teams play with the latter visiting the house of horrors Atlanta, can they dig out of this early hole? For sure. But, it would be wise to get untracked soon before it morphs into Carolina last year, who despite a furious rally, couldn't recover from a horrid start. Over the next couple of weeks, we'll see what each is made of.

Young Guns deliver in win over Hudson rival

For once on Broadway, youth is being served. Best of all, opponents are finding out that the homegrown Rangers can play a little. At least that's what the club's third consecutive victim, the Hudson rival Devils learned last night. Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan each had a goal and an assist as the Gaborik-less Blueshirts defeated the Kovalchuk Devils 3-1 at MSG. Michal Rozsival also notched a goal and helper while teammate Henrik Lundqvist stood tall, besting rival Martin Brodeur with 27 saves including some dandies late that prevented a New Jersey comeback.

John Tortorella's suddenly improving club won most of the battles against a fragile nemesis that can't seem to get out of its own way. The Rangers were stronger on the puck and more diligent defensively coming back hard and blocking 21 shots, including four from stalwart Dan Girardi who blanketed Ilya Kovalchuk most of the night. The greater attention to detail is a big reason they've reeled off three straight in succession.

"If you don't play the system you're just going to stick out like a sore thumb...everyone is doing it," was the way an effective Sean Avery described the difference after helping set up Rozsival's second of the season which opened the scoring. Sticking mostly to hockey, the Ranger assist leader (5) is playing his best hockey in a couple of years. While foe David Clarkson tried to goon it up, Avery stayed within himself while continuing solid chemistry with rookie pivot Derek Stepan and vet Ruslan Fedotenko. Only in on one goal, the unlikely trio generated chances.

Against a team without an identity thus far despite oodles of talent (sound familiar???), the Rangers came out and attacked, generating plenty of opportunities. They outshot the Devils 17-10 in the first but couldn't get the puck past a sharp Brodeur, who turned away Girardi and Mike Del Zotto on two good power plays where they moved the puck well and got shots through. With the game still scoreless, the penalty kill came through with Avery in the box. When he returned, his initial shot from the left circle caught the Devil goalie up high. A Fedotenko wide offering then caromed off the boards to Rozsival, who one-timed it past Brodeur for a 1-0 lead 86 seconds into the second period. Like the defenseman's first goal also on home ice despite little support, the puck changed direction- this time going off Andy Greene.

Following a Rozsival penalty, the Rangers maintained their lead with stellar D and a more aggressive offense that made Brodeur work. In fact, they held a 29-16 edge after two. As fate would have it, it was a Kovalchuk minor that resulted in Callahan's first. A hustling Girardi got position on the returning Russian who was scratched previously, forcing the Devil company man to take him down. Callahan had done it all except score. In a game where the future Ranger captain registered a game high seven hits and blocked four shots, Cally finally got the collective monkey off his back when he deflected home a Dubinsky shot pass over Brodeur, increasing to 2-0 at 12:22. Rozsival added an assist. His two goals and four helpers pace all Ranger blueliners yet was still booed.

"It's unfortunate. I know it gets under my skin a bit when it happens," noted Callahan.

It could've been more but Brodeur kept the Devils afloat with a couple of stops on favorite target Avery. The Blueshirts failed to take advantage of New Jersey captain Jamie Langenbrunner's third minor and also couldn't cash in with Oliver Magnan-Grenier off early in the third. With John MacLean's club finally showing a pulse, they dictated play tilting the ice. Lundqvist, who hardly broke a sweat early except for a sliding denial of a Kovalchuk bid- made some key stops in a busier third that saw the Devs outshoot his club 12-5. He turned away Langenbrunner from the right circle to keep the hosts up a pair.

With the Devils still unable to breakthrough, it looked like King Henrik might record his 25th career shutout. But some hustle from Matt Corrente and the Devs' best forward Dainius Zubrus made it more interesting. Rozsival swung the puck around which took a funny bounce out of Brandon Prust's reach. Stepan over skated allowing Corrente to keep it in. The Devil rookie blueliner then fired a low wrister on Lundqvist that drew a rebound. Zubrus got inside position on Rozsival and made a sweet backhand dish to an uncovered Kovalchuk, who deposited his third, cutting it to 2-1 with 5:52 left.

The Devils pushed for the equalizer but Lundqvist twice shutdown rookie Jacob Josefson and then made the save of the game on Matt Taormina, whose one-timer with over a minute left fooled the Ranger goalie, who wasn't sure he got it before Brian Boyle cleared the puck. "He really cemented it there for us the latter half of that (third) period," Tortorella said.

With Brodeur on the bench for an extra attacker, it was the solid defensive play of Dubinsky and Callahan that salted it. With time winding down, the Devils nearly had Kovalchuk set up but Callahan got to him and the two inadvertently collided with the puck coming to Dubinsky, who shot it down into the vacant net for his club-leading fourth with a second to go.


 “We knew coming in that we needed to have a big year,” Callahan told NY Sportsday's Joe McDonald afterwards. “Losing those guys is tough, but it put a little bit more responsibility on us and it seems like we have taken off.”

No coincidence that they've been instrumental in the team's resurgence. Callahan. Dubinsky. Anisimov. Stepan. Staal. Girardi. Del Zotto. Gilroy. Lundqvist. Get used to it.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Henrik Lundqvist, NYR (27 saves, incl.11/12 in 3rd for 1st win MSG win this year)
2nd Star-Michal Rozsival, NYR (goal, assist, 2 SOG, blocked shot in 22:52)
1st Star-Callahan/Dubinsky, NYR (2-2-4, +2, 6 SOG, 10 hits, 7 blocked shots, 4 takeaways)

Rangers go for three straight with reeling Devils visiting

In an hour, the Rangers and Devils will do battle at The Garden. It'll be the first meeting of six exciting regular season match-ups between the Hudson rivals. However, this one could have more scrutiny attached to it due to John MacLean's benching of company man Ilya Kovalchuk during last night's 6-1 drubbing at the hands of the Sabres.

How will Kovalchuk respond? The better question probably is how the Devils will off this unexpected move which stunned the hockey world. In particular, social media who feed off these kind of things. As a blogger, I don't consider myself that important. I merely see this space as a way to express my feelings pro/con on our game. Did MacLean push the panic button by sitting out his megastar following a solid win in Montreal? Or was it the right move after a game in which the supposed new cornerstone didn't even register a shot in the team's second victory?

I'm old school. No player is bigger than a T-E-A-M. If that means making an example of Ilya, so be it. Somehow, bloggers like Puck Daddy's Greg Wyshynski have forgotten what their team concept has been. The Devils have always been group-serving, which explains all the success they've had spanning two decades. Perhaps Johnny Mac was simply saying to his team, 'Nobody is above the rules. If we don't shape up, it could be you next.' Even if it does seem urgent to do it in Game No.8 on a Saturday night at home stunning the Kool Aid drinkers, there's a strong message attached. While true no Anton Volchenkov and no Bryce Salvador have made the blueline a mess, there's enough talent to get by. However, if they're under performing which has been the case for most, you're not going to get results. As Hasan noted in his recap rant last night, the six-game road trip which begins tonight could make or break their season. Did we just type that? You have to figure they'll be plenty ready to go against the bitter Broadway rival.

While they try to get things sorted out there, the Rangers are coming off their best two games of the year, netting back-to-back road wins over Toronto and Boston. Both by a goal over improved Northeast competition. Last night, they held off the Bruins 3-2 thanks to a strong first period that saw both Artem Anisimov and Alex Frolov tally with one even coming via a nifty power play redirect by Arty. After Boston's Zdeno Chara sliced it in half with a screened five-on-three rifle past Henrik Lundqvist, the Blueshirts got into penalty trouble but were able to get it done. Marc Staal came out of the penalty box and beat Tuukka Rask on a breakaway going backhand deke for the winner. A rarity that got chuckles. Lundqvist stood tall stopping 35 in a building he's had success in to notch the 'W.'

Why have the Rangers won two in a row? Because they're simply competing better as opposed to the first four games. They're winning battles and getting better defensive efforts from just about everyone, including Michal Rozsival who put together two consecutive big games. Can he carry it over at the unfriendly Garden? Will the fans allow it? Something Devil captain Jamie Langenbrunner alluded to with the fans all over Johan Hedberg last night. Sometimes, fans can be hostile and unfair. I hope Rozy has a good game. He's become our best penalty killer. Aside from him, Mike Sauer had a second straight strong game even making a nice pinch that helped setup Frolov's second. He really deserves to stay in and hopefully will get that chance.

It'll be Lundqvist versus Martin Brodeur, which is always a treat. Marty should be sharp having only worked relief last night while Henrik played a full 60 and made some outstanding saves. The rivalry isn't complete without Sean Avery, who got underneath Kovalchuk and David Clarkson's skin in a meaningless preseason game. For his part, Avery's playing some of his most inspired hockey thus far keeping the antics to a minimum while meshing well with impressive rookie Derek Stepan and Ruslan Fedotenko. He must stick to hockey.

So, who will prevail in this first match? The angry Devils or the happy Rangers. One thing's certain. There won't be any smiles once they take the ice.

Hedberg to debut for Devils at Newark

The time has finally come for Johan Hedberg to put down the clipboard. Tonight, the man known as Moose will give Martin Brodeur a rare night off when the Devils host the struggling Sabres at The Rock. His first start as a Devil comes in Game No.8 following the club's best performance- a complete effort that saw them blank the Canadiens 3-zip the other night. As usual, Brodeur owned his native club stopping all 29 en route to record shutout No.112.

Oddly enough, both Devil wins have been via the shutout. What does it mean? That perhaps John MacLean's talented club is better off playing smart hockey instead of opening it up. Especially still without top D Anton Volchenkov and Bryce Salvador on LTI. The Devs have gotten nice contributions from unknown rookie Matt Taormina, who paces their blueline with four points (2-2-4). The just turned 24 year-old undrafted player the club signed following a breakout season in the 'A' under MacLean has evolved into their offensive threat from the back end. He's been used on the power play and has a good idea when to pinch.

At 2-4-1, Taormina's been one of the bright spots on a vet club that needs better from Patrik Elias (goal), Travis Zajac (1-3-4), Zach Parise (2 goals) and franchise finisher Ilya Kovalchuk (2 goals). Parise scored Thursday and Jason Arnott notched a goal and assist, tying Kovalchuk for the team lead with five points (3-2-5). Jamie Langenbrunner had a helper but still hasn't lit the lamp. Dainius Zubrus has been a constant which explains why he's on the top line. David Clarkson remains a mystery with no points and a club worst minus-six rating. Is he getting lost in the shuffle? No question the Devs need more from the energizer. They can also use better play from '09-10 revelation Andy Greene (2 assists, -4), who hasn't gotten untracked.

It's the second meeting already between New Jersey and Buffalo, who dropped their fourth in five at home to enemy Ottawa yesterday by a count of 4-2. Even worse, Daniel Alfredsson notched a hat trick to reach 1,000 career points. Tim Connolly tallied twice for the Sabres, who fell at home to the Devils Oct.13 1-0 when Taormina forced a turnover and fed Kovalchuk for a one-time blast in overtime. With the Devs still in search for their first home win (0-3-1) and the Sabres scuffling, something has to give later. It'll be interesting to see how Hedberg performs. The ex-Thrasher was part of Atlanta's mastery over Buffalo along with Kovalchuk, who owns them with 19 goals and 12 assists in the last 29 games. He'll have to outduel Ryan Miller, who basically is left to man the Sabre net by himself.

"He’s going to give us 110 percent,” Kovalchuk told the Devils’ website. “Every practice, every game, he gives it his all. He’s a great competitor and he’s going to battle hard. He’s going to give us a great game. He won a lot of games for us in Atlanta. I’m sure he’s going to do the same thing here.”

Will the more rested home club take advantage of a weary opponent? They shouldn't take at easy. Figure Lindy Ruff's team to be plenty angry when the puck drops an hour from now.

Kovalchuk OT winner earns Brodeur 111th shutout, MacLean 1st win

It wasn't pretty but the Devils will take it. Ilya Kovalchuk's first goal of the season 53 seconds into overtime made a winner of new coach John MacLean. His first win behind the bench. Martin Brodeur stopped all 24 shots as New Jersey prevailed over Buffalo 1-0. It was Brodeur's record 111th shutout- third career against the Sabres, including a 0-0 tie over a decade ago when he and Dominik Hasek shared the game puck.

The victory was the Devs' first in four tries, pulling out the win despite using only 16 skaters. One better than their 3-1 loss to Pittsburgh Monday. Former Sabre Adam Mair signed for one year, $500,000- debuting yesterday in a familiar setting against the club he spent the past seven years with. The gritty fourth line center replaced Pierre-Luc Letourneau-Leblond, who cleared waivers. He wasn't the only one to have a successful return to Western New York with former Sabre defenseman Henrik Tallinder putting forth his best effort thus far. It helped the shorthanded team earn the 'W.'

“We’ve had a lot of changes, we’ve had injuries, and we’ve played with 15 players, and now 16 players,” Brodeur said. “It’s been chaotic a little bit. So for us to finally get one under our belt, now we can start playing our season.”

With Brian Rolston diagnosed with a sports hernia which could keep him out six weeks, the veteran center was placed on Long Term Injured Reserve, clearing space for Lou Lamoriello to recall reinforcements from Albany for tomorrow's home game against the Avs. Maybe the NHLPA can investigate that as well.

Predictably, the two clubs played a tight checking low-scoring affair which emulated last year's season series. With the Devils still short two, it favored them. You have to wonder why Lindy Ruff's club didn't try to open it up until late in the third when they had quite a few chances to pull it out in regulation.

“We’re four games in, and there isn’t anything to freak out about,” second-year defenseman Tyler Myers said. “We had a lot of chances, we just didn’t put them in.”

A couple of point blank rebounds went wide, pushing the contest to OT. In it, all it took was one mistake when Devil rookie Matt Taormina recovered Andrej Sekera's turnover and dished across for an isolated Kovalchuk, who buried it past Miller off the post and in giving his team a much needed win. In a nice gesture, captain Jamie Langenbrunner rewarded Taormina with the game puck for his first NHL career point.

“I didn’t like the play with us coming back in the zone,” Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff lamented. “We could have at least competed harder.”

Brodeur credited MacLean for igniting a fire after sending the Devils off the ice after just 20 minutes of practice during the morning skate, fuming following an errant Zach Parise pass.

“It was almost like Mark Messier,” he joked. “We have to be prepared to play a certain way and act a certain way. He wants us to act like a professional and do what we need to do to get ourselves ready, and he wasn’t happy about what was going on at the morning skate.”

"I think they woke themselves up, too. I've always said we have a good hockey team here and we're going through growing pains early, but they put the effort in for 60 minutes, which is what they were looking for and they did a nice job. It was great from Marty all the way out. They played very well," praised MacLean.

For Buffalo, it's back to the drawing board after dropping a third straight on home ice. The first time they've done that since 1993. They haven't won since an opening season 2-1 victory at Ottawa. Their next chance comes tomorrow when northern enemy Montreal pays a visit to HSBC Arena for the final game of a four-game homestand. The Habs should be in a foul mood following a bitter 4-3 overtime defeat to Tampa Bay in their home opener.

Meanwhile, the Devils get Colorado and Boston at The Rock this weekend. They'll do so with a full roster following Rolston's successful hernia surgery, which freed up $5 million in cap space. The club recalled centers Tim Sestito, Jacob Josefson and defenseman Matt Corrente. It was also determined that defenseman Mark Fraser sustained a broken hand stemming from a fight with Buffalo's Cody McCormick last night.


BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Ryan Miller, Sabres (34 saves incl.15/15 in 1st)
2nd Star-Ilya Kovalchuk, Devils (OT winner-1st of season)
1st Star-Matt Taormina, Devils (primary assist-1st career NHL point)