Devils

• TSN's Power Rankings: Ottawa Ahead of New Jersey and Montreal-- Are You Serious???- Power rankings do not mean anything to me.  I don't care for them at all.  They're useless and full of inaccuracies.  But, when TSN.ca decided to rank Ottawa ahead of Montreal and New Jersey yesterday, I maddened and screamed.  What have the Senators accomplished recently to justify the fourth spot?  I can easily justify the Devils recent road success, recording four wins on the road, including two consecutive at western conference foes.  In fact, the Devils maintain the second best record (7-3-0) for an eastern conference
• Season Predictions: From Hart to 2008 Stanley Cup Champions- With the clock ticking, I reveal my predictions for the regular season's most valuable player, rookie, defenseman and goaltender. Then, not in any order particular order, I offer my "two cents" on the Eastern and Western Conference representatives fighting in the Stanley Cup Finals. Warning Sign: Detroit and Pittsburgh WILL NOT compete in the championship round despite their best efforts this season, due to their goaltender issues. Although Ty Conklin has successfully taken over the goaltender reins in Fleury's absence, Conblock cannot dominate a seven-game series.
• Brodeur and Parise Lift Devils to Season Sweep of Leafs-

  Zach Parise assured the Devils that first place in the Eastern Conference belonged to them for at least a second consecutive night.  Parise scored the decisive tally with 48.3 seconds left in regulation, lifting the Devils to a 2-1 win over the Leafs.  In fact, he also scored New Jersey’s first goal, giving him five in the last three games, while Martin Brodeur backstopped the Devils to victory, making 41 saves.

• Elias Lifts Devils into Eastern Conference Lead- Throughout his career, the Devils have relied upon Patrik Elias's experience and ability to perform down the stretch.  He carried the team yet again last night.  Elias’s goal with 58 seconds left in overtime boosted New Jersey (26-35-7) to a 2-1 decision over visiting Tampa Bay (39-23-6) at the Prudential Center and, more importantly, sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference.

  Competing in front of an announced attendance of 15,670, the Devils outshot the Lightning 33-22, dominating many aspects of their fourth and

• And They're Off...- The Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference has never been so exciting. As of right now the New Jersey Devils sit atop both the division and the conference, but as we all know, this could change over night with the Pittsburgh Penguins only one point behind the Devils. The New York Rangers are also playing some of their best hockey of the season, making the task of winning the division that much harder.

  The

• Devils Unintelligent at Home; Blanked by Capitals- The best way to describe the Devils effort on Friday night was uninspiring or rather unintelligent. That's how head coach Brent Sutter referred to his team during the postgame press conference. "At times we're not playing with any intelligence," Sutter said, paraphrasing from his entire speech. "The team (Devils) played one period with urgency."
• Devils Fall in OT, Remain Atop Eastern Conference-

  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

• Devils Trade Janssen to Blues, Tonight's Game on FSNY 2-

  The Devils have traded enforcer Cam Janssen to the Blues for defenseman Bryce Salvador. Janssen was recently activated off the injury reserve after suffering a separated shoulder in the offseason. He had yet to see action this season. Jackman has 11 points and +12 in 56 games with St. Louis thus far. The move should help the Devils on the blue line where they were thin and in need of a veteran presence after losing Rafalski, Daneyko and both Scotts over the last few years.

• Getting Better With Age- Martin Brodeur showed many signs of slowing down and aging at the beginning of this season. A 14-year veteran, Brodeur played uninspired hockey in the opening month (3-6-0, 3.02 GAA), allowing weak, atypical goals, and more importantly, losing more games than expected. Fortunately for the Devils team and their die-hard fans alike, the "new and seemingly aging" Brodeur did not last for more than six weeks. Since the middle of November, he has returned to the Brodeur that we are more familiar with: the record-breaking (22 wins away from tying Patrik Roy’s
• NHL's Top 25 Highest Paid Players- I should have brought this to your attention earlier this season, but here are the most expensive contracts in the NHL (listed below).  Some are ridiculously stupid, overpaid, and out of control.  If I were a team owner, the general manager would have been fired immediately after seeing these outrageous signings.  Then again, how many GMs are worthwhile in sports today?  I have found eight successful organizations in the four major sports in America.
  
  Here are my picks (not in any order).
• Devils Visit Nation's Capital- The Devils return to the Nation's Capital this afternoon for a showdown with the Washington Capitals. Both teams are in the midst of the second half of a back-to-back stretch. Whereas the Devils earned their first win of the season over the Islanders yesterday, handing them a 4-2 loss, the Capitals fell to their division rival Hurricanes 6-3. While the Devils have been succeeding with a balanced roster and dominant goaltender (what else is new), the Capitals
• Discounted Seats at Prudential Center- February 29th Vs. Washington Capitals
  EZ022908 - $65 seats for $35
  COM022908 - $65 seats for $35
  SE022908 - $65 seats for $32
  SHU022908 - $65 seats for $32
  NJTC022908 - $65 seats for $35
  
  March 7th Vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
  COM030708 - $65 seats for $35
  PRU030708 - $65 seats for $35
  
  March 21st Vs. New York Islanders
  TEAM032108 - $65 seats for $35
  NJEA032108 - $65 seats for $30
  
  March 25th Vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
  AAA032508 - $65 seats for $32
  
• Devils Goal Horn- I have been to a bunch of Devils game this season. What's the deal with their goal horn? I know it used to sound something like the Hey song. Then that Olay song. Now, New Jersey Devils Goal Horn 2008, which is better than a song better suited for soccer than for hockey. But, it's nowhere near Gary Glitter's The Hey Song.  I understand that Glitter's imprisoned for illegal activities (check Wikipedia), but we should still play that song made famous during the Devils Stanley Cup run in the 1995 campaign.
• Devils Take Bite Out of Sharks-

  John Madden gave New Jersey their first lead and Sergei Brylin delivered the knockout punch, defeating San Jose 3-2 and sending the Sharks to their fifth straight loss. After a scoreless first period, the Sharks took the 1-0 lead, taking advantage of a Vitaly Vishnevksi penalty 35 seconds into the middle frame.  However, the Devils scored the next three goals, all in the second, including Madden and Brylin’s 1:10 apart, before a late Kyle McLaren tally in the third, finishing the count.

• Devils Hire Brent Sutter as Head Coach- A new coach. A new era of Devils hockey.  Hopefully, that is the case with Mr. Brent Sutter, a two-time Stanley Cup winner with the New York Islanders.  A cliché, yes, but the Devils and their loyal fans have not celebrated a complete playoff run since 2003 (my brother and father attended game seven that year of course). For diehard fans that is unacceptable business for Sweet Lou Lamoriello and his brilliant staff.  Especially, after dancing with Lord Stanley’s Cup three times in nine years. Sutter, do you really want this position?
• NHL Update: GM Meetings, Lidstrom's Knee, Peter Forsberg- Much has taken place lately in the NHL and I feel obligated to relay over what I think I know thus far. From implementing new rules to potentially decimating injuries, the league has been faced with all it can handle. Have Commissioner Gary Bettman, Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly, and Senior Executive VP of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell managed to overcome low scoring, poor television ratings (outside of the Winter Classic) to regain the professional sport’s fourth position behind NFL, MLB and NBA? Absolutely not. Yet, I am here today, hoping
• Devils Slaughter 'Canes, Gain Share of First Place in Eastern Conference- Five different players scored goals and New Jersey improved to 3-0 versus Carolina this season with a 5-1 win in front of 16,182. With the victory, the Devils improved to 4-0-1 in their last five games and captured a share of first place in the Eastern Conference standings.

  Although they have played two games this past weekend on consecutive nights, the Devils were healthier and more effective than the Hurricanes.

• General Managers Meet in Naples: Trade Deadline Approaching- With the trade deadline approaching faster than a speeding bullet, all 30 NHL general managers convened in Naples, Fla. for a tan, some cookies and discussions. There are many rumors regarding who is likely to be moved before Feb. 26 at 3pm eastern time. Scott Burnside of ESPN thinks that 6
• Was Madden for Holik Trade Ever Feasible?- Apparently, the Devils considered trading longtime center John Madden for Bobby Holik before this season started. At least that's what ESPN.com NHL Columnist Scott Burnside reported. I apologize about not responding to Burnside's article, which was published over two weeks ago. It must have slipped my mind, considering the shit that's been going on lately. I don't even know where to start. From cheaters Roger Clemens and Indiana men's basketball
• Devils Waste Two Goal Lead, Fall to Thrashers in Shootout- Pascal Dubuis beat Martin Brodeur with the decisive goal in the 10th round of the longest shootout in Devils history and Johan Hedberg denied Arron Asham on the other end, giving Atlanta the 4-3 come-from-behind win in New Jersey. The Devils had taken a 2-0 and then 3-2 lead before the Thrashers tied the game on separate occasions. Despite the loss, New Jersey gained one point, advancing into a first place tie with Pittsburgh in the Atlantic Division. The Devils remain four points behind idle Ottawa, their next opponent on Saturday night’s second half of a back-to-back stretch.
• Devils Look for Sweep of Thrashers- The Devils will look to sweep the season series from the visiting Thrashers tonight at the Prudential Center. The Devils enter tonight's contest on a two-game winning streak. That included a 3-2 overtime victory over the Eastern Conference leading Ottawa Senators. Brian Gionta snapped a 13-game scoreless streak, netting the game winner in the extra frame from captain Jamie Langenbrunner. Elias added two assists for the second straight night. The Thrashers have also won two straight, including a 3-2
• Devils Upend Thrashers, Can They Make it Four Straight?- The New Jersey Devils have broken out of their slump and the Tampa Bay Lightning are in the midst of their three-game losing streak.  Goaltender Martin Brodeur is heating up and just recorded his first shutout of the season, 3-0, last night over the Thrashers, a milestone no less.  He is 1-1 against the Lightning this year, losing the season opener 3-1 before a 6-1 convincing victory in the Prudential Center.  Jamie Langenbrunner has made a serious contribution since returning to the lineup on Nov.
• Game 57-- Devils Host Senators -- Wednesday February 13 @ 7:00 PM- After defeating Carolina on Saturday night, the Devils are hosting the Senators for the second time this season. Three defensemen scored four goals in New Jersey’s 6-1 victory over the Hurricanes, including Paul Martin’s first career two-goal effort. Elias, Clarkson and Langenbrunner added two assists apiece, eventually knocking out Hurricanes goaltender Cam Ward (14 saves on 20 shots). Is
• No. 4 Scott Stevens, Welcome to the Hall of Fame- Tonight, Scott Stevens, Al MacInnis, Ron Francis, Al MacInnis, Mark Messier will be inducted in hockey's Hall of Fame in Toronto, Ontario.  They will be inducted as players and longtime NHL executive Jim Gregory will be enshrined as a builder.  It's 2:21 a.m. and I really want to sit here and write more on Stevens' enshrinement, but I'm exhausted from a long weekend.
  
• Defense Nets Four, Devils Roll over Hurricanes- As I stated in an earlier blog, the Devils are in need of a consistent offensive output. Well, their defensemen must have peaked at the post before yesterday's 6-1 rout of the Carolina Hurricanes. Three blueliners scored four goals, including two for Paul Martin and one each for Johnny Oduya and Colin White. Forwards Jay Pandolfo and Dainius Zubrus added the other two goals for the Devils.  

  This year's Devils lineup does not sport the usually offensive-minded defensemen that fans have taken for granted through the years,

• Atlantic Division Preview-

  The Devils have yet to finish fourth in their division in a very long time. If you search the record books, the last time they missed the playoffs was the 1995-96 season. That year the Devils finished sixth out of eight teams in their division. Historically, the divisions were split into the Northeast and Atlantic at the time. Today, there are three divisions in each (east and west) conference. Since that season, they have placed at least third, a remarkable streak. Since the 1990-91 campaign, the Devils have

• Devils Shoot Sabres Out of Newark-

  The Devils were clearly frustrated after they allowed the Sabres to to tie the game with 1:37 remaining in regulation, preventing goalie Martin Brodeur from earning yet another shutout. Instead of succumbing in the last 90 seconds plus overtime, they regrouped and captured the 2-1 shootout win.

• Devils Defeat Sabres, Travel to Long Island Tonight-

  The New Jersey Devils (21-13-3) continued to win last night with a low-scoring, defensive-minded effort.  After tying the game at one apiece in regulation, Zach Parise scored the only goal in the shootout frame.
  
  Goaltender Martin Brodeur outdueled Buffalo Sabres netminder Ryan Miller and did not allow any of the three Sabres' shooters to score in the shootout.
  
  Parise fought off the flu to beat Miller for the only shootout tally and the Devils' 2-1 victory over the Sabres (19-15-2).
  

• Gionta's Struggles Disturb Fans-

  I agree with the recent negativity surrounding Brian Gionta. He has certainly not produced to par. Since Jan. 1, Gionta has scored twice (none since Jan. 10). Since the beginning of the season, he has potted merely 13 goals (t-98th), 31 less than Ovechkin’s 43 league-leading tallies. You are probably thinking about what to do with Gionta. Should GM Lou Lamoriello include him in trade discussions? Bench him? Move him around the lines? I have considered these options as well.

• Pandolfo's Iron Man Streak To End, Bettman On Air, NHL Changes Schedule, and Steve Williamson Completes 30-Day 30-Team Tour- When the New Jersey Devils take the ice on Friday night against the Atlanta Thrashers, they will be missing a very familiar face.  A defensive-minded forward who has played 307 consecutive regular season games was knocked out in the third period against the Dallas Stars on Wednesday night.  He is Jay Pandolfo.
  
• Wanted: Consistent Offense- The Devils are a defensive-minded team not known for scoring many goals. But, then they go out and score six against the LA Kings on Saturday night, basically teasing us Devils fans! How can the one of the lowest scoring offenses in the league keep teasing supporters with these rare yet kind outbursts? I prefer the Devils support Brodeur with three goals per game, than score six or even seven every now and then.

• LA Times Writer Thinks Devils Play in East Rutherford-

  This story upsets my stomach. Lisa Dillman, staff writer for the Los Angeles Times, believes the Devils never left their old arena in East Rutherford. A professional writer, who does not even cover hockey, mistake is worthy of a fine, suspension and possibly temporary leave of absence. This is a perfect reason for the league to hire bloggers, allow bloggers into the media rooms, locker rooms, etc. People like James

• Devils on Versus, TSN Tonight-

  The Devils ARE playing on Versus (HD) and Canada's TSN (HD) tonight at 7 o'clock against the Penguins. I believe this is New Jersey's first national telecast of the season (I could be wrong).  What I know is that the Devils play in downtown Newark rather than East Rutherford as an LA Times reporter detailed in her game story.  I also know that the game will take place at the Prudential Center and that Sutter rightfully

• Devils Rebound in Hurry, Easily Handle Kings-

  The Devils quickly got back on the winning track with a 6-3 win over the last-place Kings last night. They produced five second-period goals and 12 skaters contributed points in New Jersey's first win on the five-game home stand. Even the defensemen helped out, manufacturing two goals and three assists in front of 15,279 at the Prudential Center.

• Devils at Crossroads with Kings on Horizon-

  After suffering a 3-1 defeat to the Rangers last night, the Devils are back in business. Tonight, they face the LA Kings, who are in the middle of an eight-game road trip. That nearly matches New Jersey's record-tying nine-game road trip which opened the current season.

• Devils Broadcast Update: FSNY and WFAN-

  New month.  Same deal. Devils need to get back on winning track. Tonight’s opponent is perfect start as the Devils host the Rangers at 7 o'clock on FSNY (preview at 6:30) and on WFAN 660 AM. Despite the rainy, shitty day, the game will go on as scheduled like the Giants-Packers -23 degree NFC Championship Game. Let's pray for two Devils wins this weekend and then a Giants upset

• Devils Have Crucial Weekend at Rock-

  After two straight losses, the Devils have little time to waste.  They host the Rangers tonight and LA Kings tomorrow.  The Devils are no strangers to their cross- river rivals who have captured all four meetings thus far.  Despite the four-game losing streak to the Rangers (0-6-3 if you include the Islanders), New Jersey remains three points ahead in the Atlantic Division, but two points behind first place Philadelphia.  We enter a crucial stretch of hockey, the final two plus months of the 2007-08 regular season.

• Will Real Devils Fan Please Show Up!-

  Despite a fancy new arena, the Devils are still struggling to capture large audiences.  Last night was a prime example. An announced attendance of 13,595 filled the Prudential Center doors. It's not the first time this season and historically the Devils were unable to fill merely 80 percent of their seats. Hopefully, it's the last time though as each upcoming game is critical to New Jersey's postseason chances.

  The Devils have celebrated their three Stanley Cup Trophies with a ticker-tape parade through New York City parking lot parade.

• Metro Woes Continue-

  Anyone who has watched a New Jersey Devils game this season will have most likely seen the standings for the "Hummer Metro Ice Challenge".  It's a competition between the three metro area teams, including Devils, and the Rangers and Islanders representing New York.  Check out the standings and you will find the Islanders in first place and Devils, surprisingly at the opposite end.

• Devils Declare Break Won't Take Toll on Team, Get Set to Play Habs-

  Johnny Oduya, who had a career high four points in the Devils 7-3 showing over the Flyers, doesn't think that the All-Star Game will interrupt momentum they recently generated.

• False Alarm: No Players Representing New Jersey in All Star Game-

  I apologize for being misinformed.  Contrary to popular belief, the New Jersey Devils will not have any representatives in this year's All Star Game.  Head coach Brent Sutter and Martin Brodeur were selected respectively for their achievements thus far; however both men will not participate in the event.  Brodeur informed GM Lou Lamoriello last week, who finally announced his decision to the media today.  Devils beat writer Tom Gulit

• Game 47: Offensively-Challenged Devils Fly Past Flyers-

  Philadelphia - The New Jersey Devils entered tonight's meeting with Philadelphia as the lowest scoring team in the NHL, also ranked 28th on the power play.  They left the City of Brotherly Love with seven goals, five on the power play, tying a team-record, in their 7-3 win.  Zach Parise, who, reportedly, will be added to the Eastern Conference All Star roster, snapped a 9-goal drought with two marks and Johnny Oduya had the first multi-point game of his career, as

• Game 47: Devils Return to Philadelphia, Visit High-Flying Flyers-

  The New Jersey Devils have struggled recently, winning one of three during their most recent homestand.  Tonight, they leave the Garden State for Pennsylvania, the "Keystone State."  The Devils visit the storming Philadelphia Flyers winners in 7 of their last 8 games, the only loss coming in an overtime to Boston.
  

• Game 47: Devils Broadcast and Injury Report-

  The New Jersey Devils travel to Philadelphia for a crucial matchup with the Flyers tonight.  The game is on FSNY HD and broadcasted on WFAN 660AM for those in the car, like Gabi Secempski who attended the Patriots AFC Championship Game on Sunday, although his Giants-Packers prediction did not hold water.  Then again, the majority of fans and oddsmakers believed the Packers would win by seven.  He’s a Patriots fan and I hope his pick for t

• Injury and Broadcast Information: Looking Good-

  When the New Jersey Devils entertain the Maple Leafs in a few hours, you may find some changes on the ice.  Veteran John Madden is likely to return after a lacerated right ankle kept him out for two games, both losses for New Jersey.  The Devils also welcomed back defenseman Karel Rachunek versus Florida after he missed 10 games with an ankle injury.

• Around the Devils Blogosphere- 01.21.08- Since fellow New Jersey Devils bloggers focused their eyes and ears on the New York Giants 23-20 thrilling NFC Championship win over Green Bay following the Patriots win over San Diego, the posts were shorter than usual, as expected.
• Mad Dog Back With a Vengeance, Devils End Two-Game Skid-

  The New Jersey Devils knew they were missing the services of John Madden, but until tonight, they did not know how much.

  Madden scored two goals, the second held up to be the eventual game-winner, as the Devils held off the Toronto Maple Leafs, 3-2, in front of 15,291 at the Prudential Center.

• Devils Host Maple Leafs and NY Football Giants Playoff Game-

  The New Jersey Devils, who are hosting the Toronto Maple Leafs at 5 o'clock, did not expect the New York football Giants to be playing today at 6:30.  To accommodate Devils and Giants fans, myself one of them, the Prudential Center will broadcast the Gmen's NFC Championship Game on TVs throughout the arena and the Bud Light Goal Bar, Restaurant, and Fire and Ice Lounges will stay open for the entire NFC title game in Green Bay.
  

• Devils Power Play Fails Again in Disappointing Loss to Florida-

  Although the New Jersey Devils were hosting a backup goaltender and several minor leaguers, they flopped against the Florida Panthers.  The Devils, who played in front of 15,203, failed to capitalize on five power play opportunities, en route to their second consecutive home loss.  The Panthers defeated the Devils 2-1 behind spectacular play by reserve netminder Craig Anderson, timely scoring and strong penalty killing.

• Devils Health and Broadcast Report-

  The New Jersey Devils enter tonight's fourth meeting of the season against the Florida Panthers as one of the healthiest teams in the league.  There I said it.  You might hate me for saying this, but it's the truth.  Only Jay Pandolfo remains on injured reserve with his ligament injury.  Relative to the rest of the NHL, that is good news for the Devils, who are battling for the divisional lead.

• Devils Host Florida Without Madden and Pandolfo-

  For only the second time in the last eight years, the New Jersey Devils will host the Florida Panthers Friday night without two of its best defensive forwards.  While Jay Pandolfo is still nursing a pelvic bone ligament he suffered on Nov. 28, linemate John Madden will miss the fourth meeting between these two teams this season with a laceration on the inside of his right ankle dating back to Jan. 11(TG).

• Devils Notes From Past Week, Late-Night Statistics III-

  While I was on vacation, the New Jersey Devils went 2-1.  They were victorious  in both road contests before falling at home to the NY Islanders last night.  I am sure that everyone wants to know how London was, but, more importantly, we need to discuss the Devils current events.  A lot has taken place, including John Madden’s leg injury, special teams updates, shots on goal and the Prudential Center’s attendance figures.

• Devils Never Surrender, Fight for 60 Minutes Each Night-

  Ethan's recap was right on about the game Saturday night as our New Jersey Devils beat the Buffalo Sabres (again, again and a third time) in another shootout 3-2. 

• Devils Take To Road, Carolina Next- I just wanted to thank everyone for his hard work to make this site work.  I will be out of the country from tomorrow night (10pm flight) until next Thursday morning.  In the meanwhile, please enjoy our guest bloggers and various Devils blogs, which will continue to post in my absence. I will do my best to access the internet in London and at least edit and post once or twice per day.  If not, please enjoy the vacation and the posts of Joel, Bill and Ethan, as I will be in the United Kingdom, while visiting family and touring the country.
  
• Devils Score Four, Brodeur Shuts the Door-

  The New Jersey Devils seem to amaze the hockey world night after night.  Tonight was no different as they dismantled the Southeast Division leading Carolina Hurricanes 4-1 (Just as Ethan predicted they would). 

  The Devils seem to get scoring from everyone this season.  Last night four different New Jersey players tallied goals as the Atlantic Division's hottest team collected two more points (some may argue that Pittsburgh is hotter considering it has won eight straight).

• Around the Devils Blogosphere- 01.09.08-

  Even though the Devils were not in action today, their loyal bloggers provided us with creative and original content, as always.  The Devils practiced today before they fly out to Carolina for a 7:00 p.m.

• NHL All-Star Fan Balloting Final Numbers, Brodeur's 10th Appearance, 4th Career Start- Unlike the Presidential election and last year's "Vote for Rory" scandal, there were no miscalculations this time around.  No illusions, aberrations, or inaccuracies.  The 2008 NHL All-Star Fan Balloting results were as successful as the Winter Classic.  You can't ask for much more for that.
  
• Devils Broadcast History Timeline- Instead of sleeping last night, I worked hard to locate the New Jersey Devils broadcast information.  It wasn't easy.  I had to assassinate four dead monkeys and two live chickens to find all of this information.  Just kidding.  Only one chicken.  In all seriousness, this is the most accurate non-official timeline dating back to 1986.  Unfortunately, I am not sure who broadcasted Devils games on the radio and on television before the year of the NY Mets last World Series Win.
• Devils Broadcast Information vs. Buffalo-

  The New Jersey Devils welcome Buffalo to the Prudential Center tonight for a standard 7 o’clock start.  Tonight's contest will air on FSN-NY (HD) and as usual, on WFAN 660 AM.  The television pregame show begins at 6:30 p.m., a time when most people are still at w

• NHL Calendar, All Star Game Later This Month-

  Later this month, the world will experience some peace and quiet with the  2008 NHL All-Star Weekend in Atlanta, Georgia.  Well, not exactly.  I hope the Philadelphia Flyers are not invited though.  They are not friendly creatures.  NY Islanders' Chris Simon is not welcome either.  Can someone encourage him to do rehab?  I am not certain that a 30-game suspension will suffice for someone who broke his own 25-game record established back in March for a dangerous and violent stick-butting inci

• Devils Poor On Shots In Weekes' Rare Start-

  After the New Jersey Devils' 45th shot on net tonight, the final buzzer rang, and both teams were definitely exhausted.  Unfortunately, goaltender Kevin Weekes, who spelled Martin Brodeur in net for the first time since Dec. 10, seemed uncoordinated, and allowed three first-period goals in the Devils' first loss in a week.

• Devils Like New Arena, Very Very Much-

  The New Jersey Devils have now played at their new Prudential Center arena for 11 full weeks.  We decided to review the positive memories and the few bad experiences (opening night) from the past two-plus months, in their new house.  Unfortunately, things were not very joyous on Oct 27th, 2007.  They were not nearly as disastrous as the The NHL's All-Star “Rorygate” voting disaster last season.

• Langenbrunner's Contributions Will Surely Be Missed- Jamie is going for surgery today for the sports hernia injury that has been bothering him since February. He actually played through the pain until the season end. I am not sure why he did not go for surgery immediately after the season concluded. That would have been the ideal solution for his groin dilemma. Now, the Devils are in middle of training camp without one of their key players. Last season, he scored 60 points, good for third on the team.
• Devils Unlucky News Report- Jamie Langenbrunner is undergoing surgery to repair his injured groin and Cam Janssen is following suit for a separated shoulder suffered during the Devils first preseason game. There were rumors spread from people in attendance that the new Reebok jerseys made Janssen's injury happen. He did fight twice in game, so it's his problem there. He also injured the same shoulder last season and was out for over 10 games, so surgery is probably a good idea. To add insult to injury, Colin White was drilled by a puck to the eye in practice.
• Devils Dominate Flyers-

  The New Jersey Devils came away last night with a victory over the Philadelphia Flyers.  Patrik Elias returned from a groin injury to pave the way with a goal and a helper.  But, what surprised fans, the media, and everyone occurred in the second period of the Devils 3-0 blanking of the Flyers.

• NHL All-Star Game Final Numbers-

  The fans spoke.  After several months of deliberation, they voted for Crosby, Levacalier, Markov, Chara, and Martin Brodeur to lead the east.  Zetterberg, Datsyuk, Lidstrom, Phaneuf, and Luongo received the most votes for the Western Conference.  The NHL will officially release the starting line-ups Jan. 8.

• Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for the New Jersey Devils-

  From Guest Blogger Ethan Kwassman, who has hosted many Devils broadcasts on blogtalkradio:

• Devils Battle Atlantic Division Rival Flyers Tonight at Prudential Center- At this point last season, the New Jersey Devils entered the New Year with a 47-26 double-digits lead in points over their Turnpike rivals Philadelphia Flyers.  While the Devils were on their way to another Atlantic Division crown, the Flyers could not wait for the season to end and to clear house (they fired GM, coach, involved themselves in several large transactions during the offseason).
• Devils Stellar Play of Late Earns Coach a Spot in All-Star Game-

  ESPN reported that Mike Babcock of the Detroit Red Wings, Ron Wilson of the San Jose Sharks, John Paddock of the Ottawa Senators and Brent Sutter of the New Jersey Devils will comprise the 2008 All-Star game coaching staff. 

• Devils Late-Night Statistics II-

  Since our first edition of Devils Late-Night Statistics was a great success, we will continue with round two, just earlier in the evening.  We will focus on the Devils' special teams, scoring (or lack there of), goaltending, attendance figures (yikes), and a quick glance at the standings (much better), not in any particular order.
  

• It's a Bird. It's a Plane. It's the Winter Classic (Live)-

  The National Hockey League really found its niche in sports, in my opinion.  Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to attend the NHL Winter Classic in Buffalo, New York.  The NHL really put on quite a show at this game and the sellout crowd of 71,217 could not have been more excited and even too enthusiastic (guys, you had to go topless, c'mon).

• Atlantic Division: New Year's Eve Update- In early November, the New Jersey Devils faced their Atlantic Division opponents in nine consecutive games.  They went 4-1 against Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, but 0-3-1 against the New York Rangers and Islanders. 
• Devils Power Up in Practice-

  The New Jersey Devils completed the post-Christmas weekend at 1-1 yet remain in first place in the Atlantic Division.  Unlike earlier this season, where head coach Brent Sutter may have given his team a day off after playing two games in 48 hours, tis was not the case in this morning's practice. 

   
• Devils Depleted By Injuries, Activate Reserves-

  The New Jersey Devils have roared into 2008 with wins in three of their last four games and a first-place hold in the crowded Atlantic Division.  They have climbed aboard goaltender Martin Brodeur's shoulders as he leads them into the New Year. 

• NJ-FLA Wrap-Up-

  Penalties.  Tonight's theme was penalties, and lots of them.  Most of them were good, legitimate calls. Others were bogus. Calls that any hockey fan would have been upset with. The prime example, of course, was the penalty on David Clarkson in the 2nd period that resulted in a PPG for the Panthers.  Florida won 3-0.

• Devils Late-Night Statistics-

  I am incredibly bored and have nothing better to do at 4 a.m. on the east coast.  I am assuming that you are sleeping in a warm cozy bed.  I will join all of you shortly (in my bed).  In the meantime, enjoy some Devils’ statistics, which I find valuable and important to their success this season.
  

• New Jersey Devils Captain- If Not Elias, Then Who?- Over a week ago, head coach Brent Sutter revealed that he is unsure if Patrik Elias will remain as team captain this upcoming season.  If Jamie Langenbrunner were to replace Elias, that plan might have to be delayed. He went for surgery on his injured groin and will be sidelined for up to two months.
  
• Q and A -- Final Edition of 2007 Calendar Year (12-30-07)-

  Kevin Pritchard of wnymedia was kind enough to share his thoughts on the Buffalo Sabres with Devils Daily and the rest of the globe.  Before this weekend, the Sabres were situated in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, despite losing two important pieces during the offseason.&

• Islanders Score Three in Final Period, Hold Down Fort against the Devils-

  Just when it looked like New Jersey was back in this game, the Islanders responded with two goals in an important 3:19 span of the third period.  New York added an empty netter in the final minute to defeat the Devils, 5-2, their fourth consecutive win over their division rivals this season.

• New Jersey Devils Broadcast and Attendance Information- The New Jersey Devils host the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night at 7 p.m at the Prudential Center.  The game is on FSNY, MSG and on WFAN 660 AM.  There is no preview tonight on television.  Tomorrow night, the Devils travel to Long Island to face the Islanders.  The Islanders' TV guys will host on FSNY and Doc and Chico (Devils tandem) on FSNY 2 since it is a road game.  I a
• Devils Lineup, Injury Situation for Weekend- Injuries in sports suck, especially after playing 307 consecutive games dating back to 2003.  Just ask New Jersey Devils forward Jay Pandolfo who has missed the last 12 games with his pelvic ligament injury.  He will not play tonight.  I have a complete preview here and Devils Back in Action Tonight, Host Buffalo at The Rock-

  The Devils return from a three-day holiday vacation as they host the Sabres (18-14-4) at the Prudential Center for the first time this season.  Martin Brodeur continues to shine as he leads New Jersey (20-13-3) to three-point first-place margin in the ultra-tight Atlantic Division.  The last-place Islanders are separated from the Devils by five

• Nets End Relationship with Continental Airlines, Welcome the Izod Center- From Continental Airlines Arena to Izod Center.  It's that simple.
  
  John brennan, staff writer at the Bergen record, has more on this story.
  
• Love Thy Neighbor-

  In professional sports, there are certain successful organizations like the Yankees, Patriots, and New Jersey Devils.  Unlike the Pats and Devs, every non-Yankee fan hates, despises, and loathes the Bronx Bombers.  I did not mean to such harsh terminology, but that is how people feel towards the Spankees.&nbs

• Happy Holidays as Devils Rest Up...-

  First and foremost, I would like to wish everyone a happy holiday, whatever it is that you are celebrating.  I celebrate Christmas and it was one of the most hectic ones ever!  So I hope that everyone has been having happy and healthy ones everywhere. 

• Long Live the Coach- You do not hear the expression "Long live the coach" in sports anymore.  Instead, you hear pack your bags, take a hike, you're fired a lot more often.  Why is that?  Why does it seem like coaches today are given the boot at a higher and faster rate than in year's past?  Truthfully, I believe it has to do with the media.  It has such an important impact on our liv
• The North American Hockey League-

  In 2000-1, there were 36 rookies from Canada, 4 from the United States, and 33 from Europe in the National Hockey League.  The tables have definitely turned since that season (See below), especially with the rise in U.S.A Hockey (Devils Rumors and Myths-

  Before getting down and dirty, we just wanted to wish everyone happy holidays from everyone at Devils Daily.  Sorry though, no snow in our neck of the woods.  I have been hearing a lot of talk about Martin Brodeur, Patrik Elias, and Johnny Oduya in the limited hockey airwaves.  I need to clear up the air so everyone can inhale, exhale,

• Kevin Weekes, Welcome to New Jersey-

  Kevin Weekes, Welcome to New Jersey, the Garden State.  It is time to give the Devils organization some credit, not a lot, but enough for signing a reliable backup to Martin Brodeur in the offseason.

• Sutter- Having Fun Yet?-

  Brent, you definitely have your work cut out this upcoming season. Not only are you the new head coach of the New Jersey Devils, but you have the honor to start the season on a nine game road trip spanning three weeks. Not the fun kind.

• Upcoming Devils Posts- 1) Season Preview- overall scope of the upcoming season
  2) Three Keys to Success- what the Devils will need to achieve to dance with the Stanley Cup in June 2008
  3) Top Five New Jersey Devils Players in Franchise History (since 1982).
• Brent Sutter- Continued...-

  Brent, you definitely have your work cut out this upcoming season. Not only are you the new head coach of the New Jersey Devils, but you have the honor to start the season on a nine game road trip spanning three weeks. Not the fun kind.

• Off Season Transactions- With less than three months until opening night, the New Jersey Devils resigned their top scorer from last season Zach Parise( 31 goals). Son of JP, a former Minnesota North Stars Captain, Zach excelled in many facets this past season.  At 4 years and 12.5 million dollars, the restricted free agent was a steal compared to the massive overpaid contracts.
  
• Cheap Seats? Not in New York-

  I knew that the prices would rise as soon as construction workers finished installation of the locker rooms at the Prudential Center.  Did I expect them to double in price?

• Taking Advantage of The Fans-

  The National Hockey League recently negotiated and signed an exclusive contract with Ticketmaster "to create an NHL resale ticketing service to be powered by Ticketmaster."  As Jez Golbez first mentioned this story on his AOL Fanhouse blog, he felt that the Friday Night's Edition of Jeremy's Hockey Itch-

  It's Friday night a quarter after 11 on the east coast about one o'clock on the east coast.  You're probably thinking that I should be out partying, having a good time instead of watching the tube.  Well, I agree, but everyone just finished finals for the fall semester and there will be plenty of disco tech in the next month.  In meanwhile, we w

• Perfect Pass Leads Devils to Overtime Win-

  Merely 25 seconds into overtime, Patrik Elias took advantage of a Flame s turnover, and one-timed a Brian Gionta assist by Miikka Kiprusoff to give the Devils the 1-0 overtime win.

• Devils Conclude Canadian Trip in Calgary-

  If the Devils want to bestow head coach Sutter with a holiday present, nothing would be better than a win tonight.  The schedule makers randomly assigned Sutter's Devils to play Calgary today Sunday Dec.

• Parise Out, Devils Game on FSNY- The New Jersey Devils will be without leading scorer Zach Parise, who is fighting a case of the flu, and a pelvic- ridden Jay Pandolfo who has not played since Nov.
• Devils Daily Gets Recognized-

  After months of hard work and dedication, Devilsdaily has finally been recognized.  Credit Ian, Mo, Joel, Bill, and everyone else involved for their loyalty and dedication.  We started back in August and have no written over 250 blog posts since then with many more on the way.  Blogtalkradio