State of the Devils

Coming off an 8-game winning streak, where do the Devils go from here? They play in Atlanta Friday night. They have had some difficulty with Atlanta this season and this should be a decent test for them. Based on how Clemmensen played last night, I have a hunch Weekes will get the start Friday night, especially since the Devils are playing 3 games in 4 days.

Only time will tell really how good this team is but one thing is for certain, they will not lost because of lack of effort. Brent Sutter has really instilled something in this team and you can really tell they trust him this season. Last season was a feeling out process for both sides but not this season. Everyone is playing for each other and giving 100% each shift. As a coach and as a fan, that is all you can ask for. We are virutally in every game and sometimes you get a bad break or a bad call (*cough*Mcreary*cough*) and you lose a game. You can't win every game but you can take away positives from every game which is a good sign.

Last night the positive of the game was the conitinued great play of Jamie Langenbrunner and his entire line. Zach Parise had a lot of chances again last night but couldnt cash in. Travis Zajac is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous short handed players in the league. It seems like every game he gets 2 or 3 excellent scoring chances short handed.

The defensive corp as a whole has really developed nicely and everyone understands their role and where they fit in and just does their job. Bryce Salvador has been rock solid back there this season. Johnny Oduya has been ourt best two-way defenseman as well. People are clammoring for a trade for a veteran defensemen and the only player I wouldnt mind seeing replaced is Andy Greene. He has been inconsistent since coming back from injury and that is not something that can happen with this team. This team can not rely on a few players, it takes a team effort and every man doing their job to get the result they are looking for.

Scott Clemmensen has been a great story this season and has been extremely solid and has done his job almost every night. His job is to keep his team in every game and he has done that with the exception of last night against Washington. He let in a few that were just backbreakers. A report came out that Martin Brodeur is targeting February 26th as his return date. I fully expect him to be eased back in to the lineup and Clemmer will continue to play. Come playoff time Marty should have the rust off and be ready to go.

Regardless of last nights result, this team has the makings of something special. I revel in the fact that people are doubting the Devils and underestimating them. We play the best as the underdog and under the radar. When the end of the season comes and the Devils are in the top 4 of the eastern conference again, there will be no sneaking up on anyone in the playoffs and the Devils are going to have to come correct. Based on what I have seen from this team, I dont feel any trades need to be made and the sky is the limit for these guys.