Where We Are: The Blueshirts have given no signs of being a capable playoff club. The goaltender lets in soft goals, the defense is porous and the goal scorers can't score when it counts. The power play is atrocious and the head coach shockingly seems to believe his team can play their way out of this slump. The last head coach thought that too and look where that got him.
Where They Are: Fatso came out flying from his injury to break St. Patrick's record and since then hasn't been all that great. He couldn't come up with the big saves in Jersey's last two games and has lost four straight. Still, the Devils did so well thanks to Scott Clemmensen that they maintain first in the Atlantic. Who To Watch For: The usual suspects. Zach Parise, Hepatitis Elias and Jamie Langenbrunner are always dangerous against the Rangers. Langenbrunner, in fact, is one of the few players on either team who seems to really play with a chip on his shoulder - he really doesn't like the Rangers and I can respect that. Travis Zajac has been stellar this season setting up and clearing room for Parise.
What To Watch For: Does Avery vs. Mmmmaaaarrrtttyyy become a sideshow, the main event or a nonhappening? Will Brendan Shanahan torch the Rangers in his first game back since being unceremonially dumped by the idiot front office? Will the Ranger defense be able to stop Parise, who has turned into one of the top talents in the league?
What We'll (Hopefully) See: A nice salute by the fans and Garden staff for Shanny - the man at least deserves a video tribute. Better officiating then in Pittsburgh. Hank not to allow two or more soft goals. Wade Redden to be injured for the rest of his career. Mike Rupp to get his untalented ass kicked by Colton Orr.
Also Check Out: The solid Fire & Ice, my former fellow NY Times Hockey Night in Blogdom foe In Lou We Trust moved to SBN and Rich Chere's MSM blog.
Peepin' Foes: New Jersey Devils - A Deep Dive into the Garden State Hockey
The New Jersey Devils, an NHL franchise that calls the Garden State home, have been a prominent and often enigmatic force in the world of hockey. Founded in 1974 as the Kansas City Scouts and later rebranded as the Colorado Rockies before settling in New Jersey, the Devils have had a storied history filled with triumphs, controversies, and memorable moments. In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at the New Jersey Devils, exploring their origins, notable players, iconic moments, and their impact on the NHL.
Origins and Early Years
Kansas City Scouts: The Devils' history begins with their roots as the Kansas City Scouts, an expansion team that joined the NHL in 1974. Unfortunately, their time in Kansas City was short-lived, lasting only two seasons.
Colorado Rockies: Following their stint in Kansas City, the franchise moved to Denver, Colorado, and became the Colorado Rockies. However, their time in Colorado was also marked by struggles, both on and off the ice.
Settling in New Jersey
Move to New Jersey: In 1982, the franchise found a new home in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and was renamed the New Jersey Devils. This move marked a turning point in the team's history.
The Turnaround: The Devils gradually transformed from an underperforming team into a formidable contender. This transformation was largely attributed to the arrival of Lou Lamoriello, who took over as the team's president and general manager in 1987.
Glory Days: The Stanley Cup Championships
1995 Stanley Cup: The Devils won their first Stanley Cup in the lockout-shortened 1994-95 season. Led by coach Jacques Lemaire and goaltender Martin Brodeur, they defeated the Detroit Red Wings in a four-game sweep.
2000 and 2003 Stanley Cups: The Devils added two more championships to their collection in 2000 and 2003. These victories solidified their status as a dominant force in the NHL during the early 2000s.
Notable Players
Martin Brodeur: Widely regarded as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history, Martin Brodeur spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Devils. His impressive records, including most career wins, are a testament to his skill and consistency.
Scott Stevens: Known for his bone-crushing hits and physical play, Scott Stevens was the heart and soul of the Devils' defense during their championship years. He also served as the team's captain.
Patrik Elias: Patrik Elias is the franchise's all-time leading scorer and a key contributor during the Devils' successful years. His offensive prowess and leadership made him a fan favorite.
Controversy and Innovation
The Trap: The Devils gained notoriety for their use of the neutral zone trap, a defensive strategy that stifled opponents' offenses. While effective, it was often criticized for slowing down the pace of the game.
Salary Cap Troubles: In the early 2000s, the Devils faced salary cap issues that led to the departure of some key players. Despite these challenges, they remained competitive.
Post-Championship Era
Move to Newark: In 2007, the Devils moved to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, leaving behind their longtime home at the Continental Airlines Arena.
Recent Years: The Devils have faced a period of rebuilding and roster changes in recent years. While they haven't captured another Stanley Cup, they remain a team with potential and promise.
FAQs About the New Jersey Devils
Why are they called the Devils?
The team is named after the Jersey Devil, a mythical creature from New Jersey folklore. The name was chosen in a fan contest in 1982 when the franchise relocated to New Jersey.
Who is the most iconic Devil in franchise history?
Martin Brodeur is often considered the most iconic Devil. His goaltending records and championship victories are unmatched.
What is the state of the team today?
The Devils are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing young talent and building for the future. The team's fortunes can change rapidly in the competitive NHL.
The New Jersey Devils, once a struggling expansion team, evolved into a powerhouse during the late 1990s and early 2000s, capturing the hearts of their fans and earning respect throughout the league. While they may not currently dominate the NHL landscape, the Devils' legacy is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated ownership, strong leadership, and a commitment to excellence. As they continue their journey in the NHL, the Devils remain a captivating chapter in the rich tapestry of professional hockey.
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