Struggling Maple Leafs @ Devils 3/23/12 PREVIEW

New Jersey Devils enjoy
a win together

Toronto is hot lately! Hot with anger! The recently embarrassed Maple Leafs team has allowed 13 goals in two games, scoring just 2 of their own. Toronto lost 8-0 against the Boston Bruins, and 5-2 to the lousy New York Islanders. New Jersey is looking to keep the fire lit after their 1-0 shut-out of the Ottawa Senators, led by Ilya Kovalchuk and Johan Hedberg. Prior to the game against the Senators, the Devils played two tough games against division rivals and Eastern Conference power-houses, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers. Both of them losses; one by two goals, and the other by 3 goals. Toronto has dogged 72 slow points, opposed to Jersey's 89. 


The goalie match-up is a wonder. The leafs have had troubles all year between goalies Jonas Gustavsson and James Reimer, as they have both been extremely streaky. On New Jersey's side, I think the Devils might treat Johan Hedberg the way they did last time he shut-out a good team, which in my opinion is not proper, but by going back to starter and legend Martin Brodeur. Either way, the Devils give themselves a good position to win the game.

Travis Zajac Celebrates

New Jersey has missed last years' first-line center for the large majority of the season. Center, Travis Zajac, returned very briefly this season, but his nagging achilles injury has kept him out of play once again. Apparently, there is a small chance he could return Friday, which would be a possible, nice help to the Devils as they near the playoffs. Ilya Kovalchuk received his 400th career goal against Ottawa, which was the game-winner in the shut-out. Kovalchuk has been hot all season, leaving no room for criticism.

Mark Fayne is approached by
Adam Henrique after a goal

Toronto has gone through a coaching change, goalie injuries, and a rough season after a solid beginning. However, they have had some rays of sunlight in Phil Kessel and Joffrey Lupul. Both were selected as all-stars.


All signs are pointing favorable to the Devils in this game, but if you ask any player or coach in the NHL, they will tell you there is no easy win in the Nation Hockey League.