Roger Mussa is on vacation in Florida. I will be filling in.

For those that thought the New Jersey Devils season would be over and the 2009 entry draft would bring John Tavares to the Portuguese pride of Newark, they are mistaken. Without Martin Brodeur, the Devils have won seven of the last eight games as they are getting clutch performances from Patrik Elias and Zach Parise. Parise scored the game winning goal from a feed by Patrik Elias in overtime against a sellout crowd at the Bell Centre in Montreal. This Devils team is getting healthy and by the end of the regular season, they will be the team to beat.

The first place Rangers lost to the Habs 6-2 two night prior and the Devils beat a very good Canadiens team as Carey Price absolutely played out of his mind by making key spectacular saves in regulation last night. Brent Sutter is riding the hot netminder, Scott Clemmenson and it appears that he is the go-to-guy over Kevin Weekes as long as he can maintain this kind of stellar performance. Clemmenson is getting comfortable as the starter and getting a consistent amount of NHL playing time for the first time in his career. His supporting cast is getting healthier and has been developing some good on -ice chemistry.

The two prized free agents last summer, Bobby Holik and Brian Rolston, are back in the lineup and their veteran leadership and presence only adds to the depth. Brent Sutter can roll four lines and wear down the opponents. Once Andy Greene returns and barring anymore unforeseen injuries or setbacks, the Devils will have about two to three months to develop a stronger team before Martin Brodeur comes back from his arm injury. So far, the Devils have shown a “no-quit” attitude and as what Roger Mussa said in his last blog, “character”.

Not since the A-line with Petr Sykora on the opposite wing has Elias developed great chemistry with another linemate like Parise. Yes, he has posted great numbers with other players on his line but something is special with these two players. They are gamers and it is quite obvious: 4 on 4 or 4 on 3, they will punish their opponents with the amount of open ice that is afforded to them. Elias seems to be more comfortable in his role this year under Sutter and Parise is looking to make the 2009 All Star game with his 15 goals, 13 assists, and plus 12 rating. This kid is having a big season and providing the much needed offense.

The Devils have an important three game home stand, which they play the Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, and Buffalo Sabres. Three games in four nights will be tough but they will be at home for the first time since November 21st.

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