This year's Devils lineup does not sport the usually offensive-minded defensemen that fans have taken for granted through the years, with players like Scott Niedermayer and Brian Rafalski.

However, after last night's contest, fans and players alike were comparing Oduya with some of hockey's top d-men. In addition, these efforts are needed for the Devils to make a run at the Stanley Cup.

Yesterday's game was a great way to finish the rest of the season. The Devils need to continue replicating the effort put forth last night.

On Friday, the Devils hosted Anaheim, outshooting them 35-24 with many golden opportunities to score. Yet the Ducks came away with the 2-1 win behind Ryan Carter’s first and second career NHL tallies and reserve netminder Jonas Hiller’s superb effort.

Less than 24 hours later, the same Devils discovered the offense, scoring twice on the power play one night after going 0-5.

Head coach Brent Sutter needs to keep the fire and motivation under his team like they had last night, if the Devils are to contend for the Atlantic Division crown.

The division is tighter this year than in the past and every game is a necessary win, especially those outside of the league. After today, Pittsbugh has taken over the lead with 69 points, while the Devils are in second with 66 points. The Flyers have 65, the Rangers 63 and the lowly Islanders last with 55 points.

The Penguins are the Atlantic’s hottest team despite not having Sidney Crosby in the lineup. Evgeni Malkin is unstoppable lately as the Penguins won their third straight on Sunday afternoon.

The road to success does not get any easier for the Devils, as they host eastern conference-leading Ottawa at the Prudential Center this Wednesday night. The Senators visited the Rock on its inaugural night, defeating the Devils 4-1 and ruining the opening of their new arena.

It’s time to avenge that loss.

Go Devils!

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