* posted on Hockeybuzz for Versus
The New Jersey Devils are rolling again with their second straight victory in two nights, this time beating the Red Wings in the shoot-out after blowing a two goal lead.
The Devils, who are second in the Atlantic Division and third place overall in the Eastern Conference have been getting healthy with Johnny Oduya and Jay Pandolfo back in the lineup against the Wings while Paul Martin, David Clarkson and Danius Zubrus still on the shelf. Despite the injury bug hitting the Devils hard, like many NHL teams this season, the Devils have successfully inserted youngsters into the lineup who have held their own and contributing nicely to Coach Jacques Lemaire’s system – Niclas Bergfors (third on the team in scoring), Mark Fraser, Matt Halischuk, Vladimir Zharkov, Matt Corrente to name a few have been steady plugs.
Therefore when the Devils get a healthy body back it is like adding without subtraction which makes the Devils a more steady and confident team and a much difficult opponent. Patrik Elias is a great example, with 3 goals and 7 assists in 13 games back has put up some points and given the Devils added depth and threat but most importantly made those around him better such as Brian Rolston who looks like a different player from the start of the season (8 points in the last 7 games).
The Devils play the Sabers on Versus so all eyes on these teams and it should be a hockey fan’s treat. The Sabers who are also second in their Division coming off of a loss to the New York Rangers will look to get back in the win column.
The team has adapted very well to returning Coach Jacques Lemaire’s system and will need to continue their ways with Zach Parise, in my opinion the next Captain of the New Jersey Devils, leading the way along with former college teammate Travis Zajac who is also taking another step in his NHL development and proving to be a key player for the Devils. Captain Jamie Langenbrunner’s presence with them is also a bonus.
In net, Martin Brodeur continues his old ways after a year to forget last year. He has been playing a steady game and still chasing that elusive all-time shut-out record of 103 career shut-outs currently held by great Terry Sawchuk. It is a matter of time till Brodeur ties the record with his next shut-out which he has been chasing since October 17th.
The Devils' average looking defense has been performing above expectations which is typical for the New Jersey Devils teams since the days of Scott Niedermayer and Scott Stevens. While key defenseman Paul Martin is still out, the step-up of Andy Greene (3 goals, 11 assists while averaging over 23 minutes per game) has given the Devils that puck moving player alongside Oduya. Greene is giving the Devils a bit of what they have lacked since Brian Rafalski left. Mike Mottau, Colin White and Bryce Salvador play their parts in a defensively responsible defensive corps.
Devils Keys to the Game – The Brodeur/Miller goalie duel:
1- Figuring Ryan Miller (1.83 GAA) out will be the Devils’ forwards homework. He has been spectacular.
2- Brodeur – continue his consistent play in net. Do we see him get more days off as the Olympics get closer? I think it may be Marty’s choice.
3- Continue the integration of injured players back into the lineup – Oduya and Pandolfo will just get better and in game shape with every game. Devils forwards balancing the scoring opportunities.
Truly yours,
The Devils Advocate
New Jersey Devils Blogger • 
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