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Has the New Jersey Devils, and Uncle Lou, lost their way? Is it time to rebuild?

After reading a very good article by Damien Cox (see here: http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/2013/04/12/new_jersey_devils_in_dire_need_of_reboot_cox.html ) I thought Id share some of my thoughts.

There has been debate, for years, that Uncle Lou and the Devils should rebuild. And as we know, Devils fans especially, Uncle Lou delivers. Or should I say, the Devils are a playoff perennial.
Who has been laughing all along?

The topic comes up, as Cox notes, very often:
The departure of stars such as Stevens, Gionta, Niedermayer, Rafalski, Parise is TBD, and many others.
Marty getting old, and the oldest goalie tandem in the NHL with Hedberg.
The “new” NHL and getting into cap trouble.
The huge signing of Kovalchuk.
Continue the list as you wish… The Devils are now the reigning Eastern Conference Champs after a surprise run to the Cup Finals last season.

So what is the magic trick or the Kool Aid? Only Uncle Lou and the ones he holds close to his chest knows. Always going back to basics in personnel selection on and off the ice.
Lamoriello has been able to create a culture that has been proven over years. Something very hard to create and maintain in the NHL as well as the corporate world.
The first that comes to mind when you think of “culture that has stood the test of time” is Disney. Very impressive and the Devils have built that with Uncle Lou at the helm.
Are the Devils equal to the Calgary of the East? Only time will tell.

But I agree with Damien, Uncle Lou has his biggest test next year. He is also another year older and, like Marty and Elias, will not be in the position for much longer.
But one thing I will guarantee – Until Marty retires, the New Jersey Devils will try to win! (and not rebuild) and will not Flame like Calgary.

One thing will be interesting - What will the "NEW" New Jersey Devils look like after the changing of the guard?

What do you think Devils fans?

Truly yours,
The Devils Advocate
@NJDAdvocate

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