Series at 1-1

http://blogs.msg.com/gameon/2009/04/18/devils-fighting-the-law-of-averages/

Before you take a look at what I have to say you can take a look at Stan "Ranger Fan" Fischler's little blog. He makes some valid points but lacks many others. And he probably isn't allowed to say a few things that I will gladly speak about. I have faith in this devils team even some in the league doubt. We played part of the season without key guys. MAIN one Martin Brodeur. Guess what we wound up with a franchise record. We also missed Rolston, Greene and a few other players for stints and sill succeeded. If Jamie can't play the team will step up. Maybe Carolina has had our number but that was THEN and this is NOW. You can look at what has happened and use that to determine what will be. However, this is playoffs nothing is always how it seems. Who thought the Rangers would be up 2-0. Or maybe the ducks shutting down the Sharks. Bottom line is there is no predictability.

I strongly disagree with Madden playing sub-par. That line has been one of the strongest and also creating a lot of turnovers. Here are a few facts that Mr. Fischler didn't mention. The refs missed a lot of calls. I know its the playoffs but cheap shots and dirty plays they have to control. I know a team has to overcome "refs" and the players can't make excuses but I can. And this entire season the refs have been horrible, both sides of the puck. They have not been consistent and they have not been fair. Let the teams play and control any unsportsman like conduct. Jamie was body slammed during the game, literally picked up and thrown to the ice, nothing was called. The hit on Gionta was intentional and should have been at least a double minor. Another few things, the devils won a lot more faceoffs even against Brindamour. Thats a huge plus as it obviously helps with possession.

Now if you want to talk about people stepping up I agree with Rolston. He is supposed to have one of the hardest shots in the league take them. Take any shot you can get, you never know. Especially against a goaltender like ward. The more pucks you throw at him the better chance something will bite. We still controlled a lot of the game, we stepped up our physical game as well. Guys like Mottau and Salvador have stepped up there game.

DOG HOUSE: I'm going to start a little thing called the dog house after the games. After last game the dog house player is Tzajac. He had way to many turn overs and looked flat, not to mention the stupid penalty he took. Offensive zone forecheck, hooking? Skate a little faster and you won't need to make up for foot work with a little one to the wrist.

The Devils had a minor set back in game 2 but are not in trouble. I think that for anyone to think that is absolutely ridiculous. The series is tied at 1 and the devils have been playing strong. I still believe this is our year. Lets go Devils!