I didn't see the game yesterday afternoon; however, based on the highlights I saw, what writers and fans have told me, and what I've seen the past few games I've managed to put together a few thoughts. Here are those thoughts as well as some other notes.
- According to the Devils beat writers Jacob Josefson, who has missed all but five games this season with a broken right clavicle, was practicing with the Devils today. Tom Gulitti noted that the Devils don't usually allow players to practice with the team if they haven't been cleared to practice which leads us all to believe he has been cleared. While a return is not imminent, I expect he will return within the next couple weeks.
When Josefson does return the Devils will have tough decisions to make as they will have a ton of depth at center and they will need to send a forward down. I'm not sure what the Devils will do but if it was up to me I would send Eric Boulton down. Ryan Carter is better, can play center and brings more energy. Cam Janssen brings a lot of energy, is a fan favorite and Tim Sestito is better than Boulton plus he can play center. With all that said, I feel it would be best for the Devils if they sent Eric Boulton down....unless they wanted to send Mattias Tedenby down so he can play big minutes in Albany.
- Speaking of Mattias Tedenby, based on the extended highlights on NHL.com it appeared Tedenby played a good game. He created a few chances and used his speed well. Let's see if he can put together a consistent string of solid games.
- Sounds like Ilya Kovalchuk played one of his best games as a Devil yesterday. He had a penalty shot goal, two assists, 5 shots and a +2 rating in 22:04 of ice time. This is the Kovalchuk the Devils were hoping for when they traded/signed him.
- Henrik Tallinder played 21:25 yesterday and was third on the Devils in minutes played despite it being his first game back. I guess Pete DeBoer liked what he saw.
- Mark Fayne played a game high 24:23 yesterday. DeBoer really likes Fayne and I think the ice time he's been getting as of late reflects that.
- Looked like it was a pretty packed house at the Prudential Center yesterday. They had it listed as a sellout but I'm not sure it was completely sold out. Still, it appeared to be very close to full (if it was not) and loud. I guess that's what happens when you're six games over .500 not even halfway through the season and playing the Penguins.
- Last note: it sounds and looked like the Devils played a very solid hockey game yesterday. It's good to see they can hang with one of the best teams in the league in the Pittsburgh Penguins. The fact they could win it in regulation is a bonus.
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