It finally happened. New Jersey Devils AHL affiliate, Utica Comets, clinched a playoff spot last night while remaining idle a midst a four game winless streak recently. The Laval Rockets defeated the Belleville Senators 5-1. This will be the first time a Utica AHL team have clinched a playoff berth since 2018 and the first time a New Jersey Devils AHL affiliate in the post season since 2017.
The Comets can capture the North Division with seven games remaining. For Devils fans, all eyes will be on Utica as their performance this season has been exciting to follow. It is a glimpse into the future as the young prospects will get playoff experience. Comets head coach Kevin Dineen has shown he can get the best out of this young talent and could elevate himself as head coach for the New Jersey Devils in the near future. But for now, there is a Calder Cup to win and just enjoy the AHL playoffs. It is a big step in the right direction for the New Jersey Devils organization.
Devils Play Arizona Coyotes tonight
Remember the game in mid January at the Rock when the Coyotes beat the Devils 4-1?
Well, the Devils will have another chance tonight to avenge that loss as it will be a battle of the bottom feeders that are vying for better positioning at the upcoming NHL Draft. The Devils need to keep focusing on defensive positioning and better puck management. Not going to be easy for Devils fans on the east coast to stay up late for this game. Hopefully the ones that do will be rewarded with a victory.
Other news: Fabian Zetterland has been practicing with the team and Mackenzie Blackwood will join the team on the trip today.
The Future
We're in! Officially one step closer to the goal#AllForThis🆠pic.twitter.com/N4avtc2aVC
— x-Utica Comets (@UticaComets) April 12, 2022
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Sam Woo is co-host and executive producer of the Let's Go Devils Podcast which can be heard live every Sunday at 9pm ET and Wednesday at 8:30pm ET.
You can follow Sam on Twitter: @PrimetimeSamWoo