Trading came and went and the Devils took the alternate route, making a small trade for a stay-at-home defenseman Bryce Salvador. They could have used an offensive weapon or two last night, falling to the Hurricanes 2-1 in overtime. Brian Gionta scored the Devils lone goal, deflecting it off Carolina's defenseman. However, with time expiring on the Hurricanes' man advantage, Sergei Samsonov tallied his first of two goals. Many people blamed Andy Greene for allowing Samsonov's game winner in the extra frame, which was clearly his responsibility, but the team produced once in regulation for the second consecutive game and Martin Brodeur stopped 34 shots. We know that head coach Brent Sutter will start Salvador next game and most likely bench Greene. But, are Vitaly Vishnevski and Karel Rachunek better than Greene, a rookie, who should be in the minor leagues right now?

Despite the loss, the Devils remained atop the Eastern Conference, one point ahead of Pittsburgh and two points better than Ottawa.  Since aquiring Marian Hossa at the trade deadline yesterday, the Penguins scare the shit out of me. Assuming Sidney Crosby returns healthy by mid-March, Pittsburgh maintains the most talented 1-2-3 punch in the east. Their only weakness lies in the goaltending slot, whether it's Ty Conklin or Marc Andre-Fleury. But, Conklin refused to obey critics last night, making a carer-high 50 saves. Hossa and Crosby did not suit up, yet the Penguins won 4-2 because Malkin, the league leader in scoring, added a goal and an assist.

Did the Devils do enough at the deadline? Truthfully, I'm really unsure. The Devils have not won since 2003 and fans are getting worried. Rightfully so, New Jersey's offense still ranks among the bottom 10 and its power play is 19th. In the playoffs, the level of play is increased, especially in 7-game series and these two weaknesses will haunt the Devils. Elias is past his prime and Madden is having a career year in his mid 30s. Gionta has underachieved and Parise is their future. I am not sure if these pieces are worthy enough to stop or at least contain Malkin and Co.

Now, they have 9 decent defenseman. Who starts and who rides the bench? Hopefully, Sutter has answers before Friday night's contest vs. Washington. 

But, at least they have Brodeur between the pipes.

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