Devils Playoff Run May Help Parise Stay In New Jersey

2012 NHL Playoffs: Zidlicky A Deadline Diamond For Lamoriello, Devils

Newark Mayor On New York Rangers' Title Chances: 'You Must Be Pretty High If You Believe That'

If the New York Rangers can finish off the Washington Capitals to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, they will meet the New Jersey Devils for the right to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals. Trash talk for the series that might never happen has already begun, courtesy of an unlikely source.

Cory Booker, the mayor of Newark, New Jersey, was asked Tuesday on Twitter whether he felt the New York Rangers would win the Stanley Cup title.

"Call the FAA because u must be pretty high if you believe that," he responded.

The first shot has been fired, and it includes a drug reference from a New Jersey mayor.

Let's hope the Rangers can handle the Capitals, because Rangers-Devils has the potential to be a whole lot of fun.

For more on the Devils, please be sure to visit our blog In Lou We Trust and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.

Peter DeBoer, The Most Unlikely Of Choices, Leading Devils' Playoff Charge

2012 NHL Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Devils: Reaction To New Jersey Knocking The Flyers Out

Well, nobody saw this coming.

The New Jersey Devils pummeled the Philadelphia Flyers in five games to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Even in the Wells Fargo Center needing a win, the Flyers couldn't generate any offense against the relentless pressure of the Devils. Philadelphia head coach Peter Laviolette talked after the game, courtesy of ESPN.com.

"I think you've got to give New Jersey credit for the way they played defense and the way they forechecked," said Laviolette.

"It kept it from being the game that we wanted and we could never seem to get down that road."

For their part, New Jersey coach Peter DeBoer couldn't have been more satisfied.

"Really proud of our group," DeBoer said. "Proud of how we stuck to the game plan. Proud of how we turned the other cheek. Proud of how hard we competed against a very hardworking and competitive team. It gets tougher from there."

Even after beating the Flyers in such convincing fashion, the Devils will probably be underdogs when they face either the New York Rangers or Washington Capitals. However, they don't mind the label.

"You know, nobody give us a lot of credit, but we want to be the underdogs, it’s nice," said Ilya Kovalchuk.

Only one more series stands in the way of New Jersey, Martin Brodeur and the Stanley Cup Finals.

For more on the Devils, please be sure to check out our blog In Lou We Trust and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Devils: Reaction To New Jersey Moving On To The Eastern Conference Finals

The New Jersey Devils dominated the Philadelphia Flyers in every aspect of the series, and now will move onto the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2003.

New Jersey took out the Flyers 3-1 on Tuesday night to clinch the series in five games. Now, they await the winner of the Rangers and Capitals.

The Devils beating Philly wasn't expected by many, including In Lou We Trust's very own John Fischer:

I honestly did not expect this to happen way back in late September or early October as the season began. I honestly did not expect this to happen before this series began. I predicted the Flyers to win this series. I wasn't the only one. But a funny thing happened in Game 2: the Devils found and implemented a gameplan that Peter Laviolette and the Flyers just couldn't answer.

It's easy to understand Fischer's position. New Jersey had been brutal in the first round and the Flyers looked like world beaters.

However, things can change on a dime in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Now, the Devils are one series win away from the Finals while Philadelphia has a long offseason ahead.

For more on the Devils, please be sure to visit our blog In Lou We Trust and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: New Jersey Advances To Eastern Finals With 3-1 Win

The New Jersey Devils defeated the Philadelphia Flyers, 3-1, in Game 5 on Tuesday night to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2012 NHL Playoffs where they will play the winner of the series between the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals.

The turning point of the game arguably came late in the first quarter when Flyers goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov tried to clear the puck and instead hit David Clarkson charging toward the net. Clarkson deflected the puck off his skate through the 5-hole of Bryzgalov to give the Devils a 2-1 lead that they would not relinquish.

The Flyers seized momentum early on a Maxime Talbot goal to take a 1-0 lead just after the seven minute mark of the first period. That lead last just two minutes and nine seconds when Bryce Salvador added his second tally of the season off assists by Adam Henrique and Ilya Kovalchuk.

The second period featured plenty of hard hits, but no scoring. The Devils continued to wear down the Flyers. Philadelphia was out shot 11-7 in the period, giving the New Jersey two powerplay opportunities. The Devils didn't expand their lead, but they did seem like the more energized team.

Kovalchuk capped scoring in the third period, capitalizing on the Devils' fourth powerplay opportunity of the game to give his team a 3-1 lead. A well-screened Bryzgalov had little chance against a long slapshot to the upper right side of the net.

The Flyers had just one powerplay in the game when Adam Larsson was whistled for interference early in the second period. Martin Brodeur was solid in net for the Devils turning back 27 of 28 shots faced. Bryzgalov recorded 27 saves on 30 shots against.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: New Jersey Still Lead 2-1 Through 2 Periods

The New Jersey Devils still lead the Philadelphia Flyers, 2-1, after two periods as the try to close out the second round series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs in Game 5 and advance to the Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday night. Neither team was able to make a dent on the scoreboard, though the Flyers very nearly tied the game early in the period when Martin Brodeur got tied up behind his own net.

New Jersey out shot the Philadelphia 11-7 in the period, and now hold a 23-18 advantage for the game. They are 0-for-3 so far on three powerplay chances.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: New Jersey Leads 2-1 After 1st Period

The New Jersey Devils take a 2-1 lead into intermission following the first period of Tuesday night's Game 5 against the Philadelphia Flyers. With a win, they would earn a bid to the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2012 NHL Playoffs. New Jersey fell behind 1-0 early in the period, but charged back to score two straight. They took the lead when Flyers goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov attempted to clear the puck, but instead hit David Clarkson who deflected the puck into the net.

The blunder is the difference so far in a game that has been relatively tight played. The Devils hold a slim 12-11 lead in shots on goal so far. Bryce Salvador scored the equalizing goal after Maxime Talbot gave the Flyers a 1-0 lead just after the seven minute mark of the period.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Discipline Key To Series Advantage Over Flyers

2012 NHL Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Devils Game 5: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The New Jersey Devils are one victory away from moving onto the Eastern Conference finals and they get their chance to accomplish that feat Tuesday (7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network), when they travel to the Well Fargo Center to take on the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.

The Flyers are on the brink of elimination after losing 4-2 in Sunday's Game 4. In the processes, Philly also lost its best player, forward Claude Giroux, for Game 5, as he was suspended Monday because of his hit on the Devils' Dainius Zubrus. Zubrus scored two goals in the victory.

To say Philadelphia, which has just one victory all-time when down 3-1 in a series, is facing an up-hill battle could be an understatement. Since there Game 1 victory, the Flyers have failed to score more than three goals and is facing a goaltender in Martin Brodeur who's playing well.

To view Game 5, here's the viewing information:

Location: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pa.

Game Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

TV Channel: NBC Sports Network

Series: Devils lead best-of-seven series 3-1.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Claude Giroux Suspended For Game 5 Of Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs

The New Jersey Devils have a chance to close out the Philadelphia Flyers Tuesday night in Game 5 of their 2012 NHL Playoffs first-round series. And the Flyers will be short-handed.

Leading scorer Claude Giroux has been suspended for Game 5 for his second period hit on Dainius Zubrus in Sunday night's Game 4, the Flyers announced Monday afternoon. Giroux struck Zubrus in the head with a shoulder late in the second frame.

The Flyers should really miss Giroux. Their leading scoring during the regular season, he already has eight goals and nine assists during the postseason.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Devils Vs. Flyers: Reaction To New Jersey Taking Control

With the New Jersey Devils posting a resounding 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, expectations are beginning to rise.

New Jersey looked like a dead-team-walking after its showing against the Florida Panthers, a series against a lesser team that took seven games. Philadelphia appeared to be a Stanley Cup favorite after destroying the PIttsburgh Penguins.

Now, those roles have reversed. Steve Politi of NJ.com perhaps sums it up best:

"There was a point in Game 4 where the shots were 27-7. The score was still tied at 2, thanks to a Flyers power-play and short-handed goal, but at even strength the Flyers looked so overmatched you wondered how they made the playoffs, much less knocked out the high-powered Penguins in the first round."

On a night when Martin Brodeur turned 40-years-old, he turned back the clock with another nice performance and just another win.

Politi puts it in perfect perspective:

"Here is Brodeur, one victory away from the Eastern Conference Finals, making a glove save on Father Time’s breakaway."

Indeed, New Jersey will look to move on Tuesday night in front of a hostile Philly crowd at the Wells Fargo Center.

For more on the Devils, please be sure to check out our blog In Lou We Trust and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Devils Vs. Flyers Game Four: Reaction To New Jersey Up 3-1

On Sunday night at the Prudential Center, the New Jersey Devils handled their business once again in convincing fashion, beating the Philadelphia Flyers 4-2 en route to a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Most experts picked Philadelphia to win this match-up rather easily, but that simple hasn't been the case. The Devils have been faster, quicker and frankly dominant, beating the Flyers soundly.

John Fischer over at In Lou We Trust, our Devils blog, puts it well:

"The Devils are in a great spot to win this series. They just have to win one of their next three games. If there was pressure on the Flyers to win this game, they crumbled. They took bad calls. They got away with a lot of them, but not enough of them. They were muddled on offense. They were scrambling on defense. Who knows how they're going to react in Game 5. I'm expecting the worst - a revitalized and angry Flyers team. It's been said that the fourth win is the hardest; but the Devils put themselves in a great position to do it."

All night, New Jersey out-skated what should have been a desperate Flyers group. Now, the series shifts back to the Wells Fargo Center with the Devils looking to move on to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2003.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: New Jersey Takes 3-1 Series Lead With 4-2 Win

The New Jersey Devils took a 3-1 lead in their second round 2012 NHL Playoffs series against the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday night, and are now one win away from moving on to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Devils outshot the Flyers 43-22 on the night, on their way to a 4-2 victory.

The scoreboard doesn't quite reflect how lopsided the game was. The Flyers' trademark hard nose defense was seemingly nonexistent, as the Devils repeatedly earned open shots on goal. Ilya Bryzgalov was Philadelphia's lone bright spot on the night, recording 39 saves to keep his team within striking distance.

Philadelphia took a 2-0 lead in the first period on a powerplay goal by Scott Hartnell followed by a shorthanded goal by Claude Giroux. The Devils dominated afterwards behind goals by Petr Sykora, Marek Zidlicky and Dainius Zubrus. Zubrus scored twice on the night, the second on an empty net assisted by Martin Brodeur. The goaltender recorded 20 saves and earned the win on his 40th birthday.

Zubrus took a nasty blow to the head at the end of the second period from Giroux. Zubrus was able to return to the ice. Giroux was booked for an illegal check, and could face disciplinary action from the league.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan,In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Dainius Zubrus On The Ice After Claude Giroux Hit To The Head In Game 4

Dainius Zubrus is back on the ice in the third period of Sunday night's Game 4 between the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers are down 2-1 in the second round Eastern Conference series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs, and are getting significantly outplayed on the road despite being down just 3-2 in the third.

Claude Giroux seemed to be taking out his frustration when he launched himself into Zubrus' head long after the winger had let go of the puck in the closing moments of the second period.

The hit had many clamoring for a suspension. The fact that Zubrus apparently did not sustain an injury, and Giroux did not leave his feet could result in an easier punishment from Brendan Shanahan and the NHL. It'd be a surprise if Giroux didn't wind up with at least a fine, however.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan,In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: New Jersey Up 3-2 After 2nd Period

The New Jersey Devils are up 3-2 over the Philadelphia Flyers after two periods during Game 4 of their Eastern Conference series during 2012 NHL Playoffs on Sunday night. They should arguably be up by much more after outshooting the Flyers 16-5 during the period. Regardless, they own the lead for now thanks to a goal by Dainius Zubrus late in the period.

For the game, the Devils now hold a 32-12 advantage in shots on goal. Ilya Bryzgalov is doing his best in net for the Flyers, as a normally staunch defensive Philadelphia team repeatedly gets exploited by a New Jersey team playing much more like an underdog despite holding a 2-1 series lead.

The Devils will start the third period on a powerplay thanks to an illegal check by Claude Giroux on Zubrus with four seconds left in the second.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan,In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: New Jersey, Philadelphia Deadlocked At 2-2 After 1st

Game 4 of the 2012 NHL Playoffs series between the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers is so far off to a very fast start. The Flyers took a 2-0 lead, scoring first on a powerplay and again shorthanded. The Devils came back two goals late in the first period to the game at 2-2 heading into the second period. Marek Zidlicky scored the equalizer on a nice deflection off an unwieldy pass by Bryce Salvador.

Despite the even score, the Devils have largely outplayed the Flyers. They lead on shots on goal, 14-8, so far. Zidlicky already has a goal and an assist. Scott Hartnell scored for the Flyers on their man advantage, and Claude Giroux followed him up with his eighth goal of the postseason. Petr Sykora put New Jersey on the board.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan,In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Devils Vs. Flyers Game 4: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Devils Vs. Flyers: New Jersey Takes 2-1 Series Lead Despite Mistakes

The Eastern Conference's six seed, the New Jersey Devils, beat the Philadelphia Flyers in overtime on Thursday night, giving them a 2-1 series lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Despite the win, John Fischer of In Lou We Trust, questioned whether or not the Devils actually played well.

In the biggest picture, it's hard to say whether the Devils deserved this. Don't misunderstand me, I'm quite happy they won. I just wonder whether we can say they played a good game. They came out hard and played a great first period. They were pretty good in the third. They out-shot the Flyers at evens 28-23 and overall 31-28. The Flyers had little answer for Ilya Kovalchuk and Travis Zajac tonight. The team as a whole (except for the fourth line) ruled in shooting attempts, as the Devils put up a +13 Fenwick and a +16 Corsi. A margin that big usually means the Devils had an edge. Even when the Devils made mistakes, like the seemingly constant trouble with clearing the puck in the second period, the Flyers just didn't get to take full advantage on most cases. Plus, it helped that Bryzgalov didn't have such a great night in net.

Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Ponikarovsky Nets Overtime Winner For New Jersey

The New Jersey Devils finally prevailed over the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 3 of their second-round 2012 NHL Playoffs series Thursday night. The Devils took advantage of a Flyers' line change, setting up a 2-on-1 Alexei Ponikarovsky goal in overtime to put his team up one score for a third and final time. New Jersey heads into Game 4 with a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal.

The Devils twice took the lead in regulation, but the Flyers always had an answer. Patrik Elias and Ilya Kovalchuk scored 20 seconds apart midway through the first period to give New Jersey a 2-1 lead. Matt Carle responded by beating a well-screened Martin Brodeur for his second goal of the postseason.

Zach Parise was able to put the Devils up one goal again at the 7:29 mark of the third period on a wraparound shot through the 5-hole of Ilya Bryzgalov, assisted by Kovalchuk. Three and a half minutes later Danny Briere had the answer on a tip-in for his eighth goal of the postseason.

Neither goaltender was particularly sharp on the night. Bryzgalov finished with 27 saves to 25 for Brodeur. Philadelphia went 1-for-5 on their powerplay opportunities while the Devils went 1-for-2.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Tied 3-3 After 3 Periods, Headed For Overtime

The New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers are headed to overtime in Game 3 of their 2012 NHL Playoffs Eastern Conference semifinal Thursday night. Both teams scored in a tightly contested third period. The Devils held a slight advantage, getting off seven shots on goal to six for the Flyers.

The Devils also struck first in the period, thanks to a goal by Zach Parise at the 7:29 mark to give New Jersey a one goal lead for the second time on the night.

Danny Briere came through as he has all season, however, recording his eighth goal of the postseason on a quick tip-in over the right skate of Martin Brodeur to tie the game yet again. On the night, Brodeur has 19 saves to 22 for Ilya Bryzgalov.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Matt Carle Ties Game 2-2 After 2nd Period

The Philadelphia Flyers picked up their offensive game in the second period of Thursday night's 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs Game 3 against the New Jersey Devils. After being outshot 14-7 in the first period, the Flyers outshot the Devils 9-4 in the second period. They were rewarded for the effort by a Matt Carle goal to tie the game at 2-2 heading into the third period.

Martin Brodeur struggled to see around a screen set by Claude Giroux, giving him little chance against the slapshot to the top right corner of the net from the middle of the left circle. Meanwhile, Ilya Bryzgalov was allowed to sit back relatively unchallenged.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: New Jersey Leads 2-1 After 1st Period

The New Jersey Devils lead the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1 after the first period in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series Thursday night. Continuing the trend from Game 2, the Devils have outhshot the Flyers drastically on the night, 14 to seven.

Just like Game 2, the Flyers ended up on the board first despite their listlessness on offense. Brayden Schenn beat Martin Brodeur on a powerplay goal 6:08 into the period. New Jersey didn't wait long to respond however. Patrik Elias tied the game on powerplay goal at the 12:33 mark. Just 20 second later Ilya Kovalchuk stumped Ilya Bryzgalov on a wrister to the glove side.

Offensive struggles continue to plague the Flyers. Without an infusion of energy, Philadelphia is danger of falling down 2-1 in the series.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Devils Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The New Jersey Devils head home to take on the Philadelphia Flyers in game three of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Thursday night, and they have a chance to take the lead in the series for the first time.

Tuesday night's 4-1 defeat sent a strong message to the Flyers that veteran goaltender Martin Brodeur has plenty left in the tank to slow down what has been a tantalizing offense thus far in the playoffs, and that New Jersey can solve Philly net minder Ilya Bryzgalov, too.

We've seen that road teams are findings success in visiting arenas during this year's NHL playoffs, but the Devils are nonetheless likely excited to be heading home to play in front of what should be a spirited crowd.

Game Time: 7:30 p.m. EST

TV Coverage: NBC Sports Network

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: New Jersey Scores Four Goal In Third Period For 4-1 Win

Ilya Bryzgalov finally wilted under immense offensive pressure from the New Jersey Devils. He had 25 saves and a shutout through two periods of Game 2 of the Philadelphia Flyers' Eastern Conference semifinal, but gave up three goals in the third period as the Devils went on to win 4-1 and tie the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs series at one game apiece.

Adam Larsson kicked off the Devils' scoring early in the final period on a nice shot to beat Bryzgalov glove side on an assist by Dainius Zubrus.

From there, David Clarkson and Travis Zajac added tallies within the next 11 minutes to give the Devils a 3-1 lead. The Flyers had played stout defense for most of the game, but looked a step slow in the final 20 minutes of regulation. They never got going offensively, putting 20 shots on net compared to 35 for New Jersey. Bryce Salvador capped the scoring with an empty-netter with less than three minutes to play.

The Devils fell behind 1-0 in the first period on an early goal by Matt Read that was poorly played by Martin Brodeur. The veteran goaltender sharpened up afterwards, however, and finished the game with 19 saves. The Devils were excellent on the penalty kill, frustrating the Flyers on all five of their chances.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan,In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: New Jersey Still Down 1-0 After 2 Periods

The New Jersey Devils are still 1-0 after two periods despite plentiful scoring opportunities against the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series Tuesday night. Ilya Bryzgalov has been outstanding in net for the Flyers, with 25 saves already through two periods.

Martin Brodeur was solid in the period as well, though he hasn't faced nearly the same onslaught that Bryzgalov has through 40 minutes. The Flyers launched just two shots on goal but somehow still lead. Each team had exactly one powerplay chance during the period. Danny Briere was booked two minutes for holding, while Adam Henrique earned two minutes for slashing late in the period.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Philly for all the updates. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: New Jersey Down 1-0 After 1st Period

The New Jersey Devils will take a 1-0 deficit into the second period in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Devils were the bigger aggressor on the offensive end, peppering Ilya Bryzgalov with 13 shots. Martin Brodeur faced just nine shots but was less sharp than Bryzgalov, especially on the Flyers' goal early in the period.

Brodeur committed too early to the ice as Read handled the puck in front of the net, and was slow to recover as the puck bounced around back to the left hand circle. The goal was Read's third of the playoffs.

Zach Parise and Marek Zidlicky both had three shots on goal during the period, but the Devils remain scoreless. The Flyers will start the second period on a two minute powerplay after Bryce Salvador was whistled late for interference.

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Ilya Kovalchuck Injury: Devils Lose Star Forward For Game 2; Tim Sestito Will Be Replacement

The New Jersey Devils face the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 2 of a Eastern Conference semifinals Tuesday, and they'll need to try and even the best-of-seven series without their best player, Ilya Kovalchuck, who's out with a lower-body injury. Tim Sestito is expected to be Kovalchuck's replacement.

Kovalchuk suffered what is believed to be a leg muscle injury, or possibly a groin-related problem, and is not with the team. He was examined by a doctor Monday.

On Sunday, Kovalchuck played in the Devils' 4-3 overtime loss, however, he has been battling the injury since the middle of the first-round against the Florida Panthers, which was confirmed by Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello.

"He's had this since the middle of the first series," the GM said. "Progressively I think it's to a point where it's not positive for him and it's not positive for the team if he can't be at 100 percent.

"He's an intelligent individual. He understands where he's at, but it's day to day and that's how it is going to be approached. There is going to be no discussion about it. We're not going to have any distractions here."

Check out this SB Nation New York StoryStream for all your updates on this series. For all your Flyers news and information, head over to Broad Street Hockey. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Devils Game 2: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

Video: Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Danny Briere Wins It In Overtime, Flyers Win, 4-3

After having a goal disallowed due to a kicking motion, Danny Briere of the Philadelphia Flyers made the most of a second opportunity in overtime Sunday and put one past Martin Brodeur to put the Philadelphia Flyers past the New Jersey Devils, 4-3, in Game One of their second-round series in the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The Flyers went on the power play almost as soon as the overtime period opened, after Marek Zidlicky flipped a puck over the boards and into the net, resulting in a delay of game penalty. The Flyers looked like they had it won right there, as Briere appeared to put on in from right in front of the net.

Replay quickly revealed, however, that the goal resulted from a kicking motion, and play continued. Four minutes later Briere would get another chance as he stood near the blue line, and there was no mistaking this one. It went straight from his stick past Brodeur:

Though Brodeur went to the refs to plead a case of goalie interference, the goal stood. Philadelphia leads the best-of-seven series, 1-0. Game number two of the series takes place Tuesday in Philadelphia, and we'll have all that coverage here at SB Nation New York.

It was Briere's second goal of the game and seventh of the playoffs. James van Riemsdyk and Claude Giroux had the other two goals for the Flyers. Scoring for the Devils were Petr Sykora, Zach Parise and Travis Zajac.

Stay tuned to SB Nation New York for updates. If you're a Devils fan, In Lou We Trust has what you need. For all your 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff needs, SB Nation's NHL hub has you covered.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Petr Sykora Goal Ties Game At 3-3, Sends It To Overtime

After fighting to a 2-2 standstill after two periods, the New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers are heading to overtime in Game 1 of this Round 2 Eastern Conference Playoffs series. Each team scored a goal in the third period to end regulation in a 3-3 tie.

The Flyers struck first with Claude Giroux firing a rocket from the face-off spot on the left wing (video) at 4:19 in the third period. However, Petr Sykora received a nice pass from David Clarkson and skated in a dead-heat with a Flyers player before inching ahead slightly. Sykora then got off a shot that went right through Ilya Bryzgalov's five hole. Check it out below:

That goal came at 11:22 in the period, but the two teams played to a stalemate over the remaining time left on the clock.

The Devils managed to put four shots on net this period, but they had enough to get one past the goalie.

For more coverage of the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Flyers, visit Broad Street Hockey. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Travis Zajac Notches Late Goal To Tie Game At 2-2

The Philadelphia Flyers roared back against the New Jersey Devils in Game 1 of this second round 2012 NHL Playoffs series to take a 2-1 lead, but that didn't stop the Devils from tying the game at 2-2 before the end of the frame.

After Zach Parise had put the Devils up in the first period, 1-0, the Flyers waited until the second period to score their goals, netting two goals in a span of 37 seconds. Danny Briere and James van Riemsdyk scored at 8:07 and 8:44 of the frame.

Over five minutes later, Travis Zajac answered back for the Devils with a power play goal that barely made it into the net:

Bryzgalov was behind the net when this sequence began, but as he returned to the net he was unable to properly position himself to defend the net. As a result, Zajac poked the puck in between Bryzgalov's legs, bouncing off the goalie's pads, for the trickled-in goal. The Flyers attempt some subterfuge at the end, throwing the puck back out, but that wasn't going to fool anyone.

The shots were turned around this period, as the Devils managed to have three to the Flyers' eight.

For more coverage of the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Flyers, visit Broad Street Hockey. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Flyers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Zach Parise Has New Jersey In 1-0 Lead After 1st Period

The New Jersey Devils wasted few minutes in Game 1 against the Philadelphia Flyers before scoring a goal. Zach Parise scored the first goal of the game at 3:16 in the first period:

Patrik Elias controlled the puck from behind the net, free from any immediate interference. Parise skated from the corner into a position for Elias to pass the puck to him, setting up a one-time shot. Even with defenders in front of him, Parise fired off a shot and got it past Ilya Bryzgalov.

The Flyers managed to put just six shots on Devils goalie Martin Brodeur while his offense made 15 attempts against Bryzgalov. Philly had two power play attempts during the second half of the period but was unable to make anything of the man-advantage each time.

For more coverage of the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Flyers, visit Broad Street Hockey. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Devils, Flyers and The Year I Feel In Love With Hockey

Devils vs. Flyers Playoff Preview: The Goalies

In advance of Sunday's opening game of the Eastern Conference semifinals between thePhiladelphia Flyers and New Jersey Devils, SB Nation New York will break down the matchup. We've already discussed the offense and defense on both teams, and just one more area remains - the men between the pipes.

For several years, the Philadelphia Flyers goalies were a who's who of veterans, rookies and underperforming goalies. In all that time, the New Jersey Devils had just one goalie - Martin Brodeur - who went on to shatter most of the goaltending records.

Despite that huge advantage, the goaltending matchup between the two teams is virtually even, with the needle quivering ever so slightly toward the Devils.

During the offseason, Philadelphia went out and inked goalie Ilya Bryzgalov to a nine-year, $51 million contract. The veteran netminder, coming off back-to-back playoff appearances with the Phoenix Coyotes, was seen as the answer to the team's goalie woes. But he had an up and down regular season, following strong performances with horrible ones. At one point, he was so bad he was the backup in the Winter Classic, watching backup Sergei Bobrovsky get the start.

Yet, for all his quirks, the Flyers netminder dominated the Devils. In three starts and one relief appearance against New Jersey, Brzygalov went 3-0-0 with two shutouts, a 0.29 goals-against average and a .987 save percentage. He allowed just one goal on 76 shots against.

To solve Bryzgalov, New Jersey's strategy is simple - get to the front of the net.

"He's a big goalie," Ilya Kovalchuk told Tom Gulitti of The Bergen Record. "He plays the butterfly style. So, we've just got to create a lot of traffic. Pittsburgh scored a lot of goals against him that way. He's a great goalie, but we've got to find a way how to score."

Bryzgalov wasn't great in the opening round, finishing with a 3.89 goals-against average and .871 save percentage in the win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. He allowed 21 goals, and his offense bailed him out plenty of times. He won't be the toughest goalie New Jersey faces, but they'll need to drive the net to have success. When Brzygalov gets hot, he's nearly impossible to beat.

Brodeur, pulled in Game 3 of the first round, has responded to his critics in the first round. He saved his best performance for Game 7, stopped 43 of 45 shots to send New Jersey into the second round. The future Hall-of-Famer, who will turn 40 years old next week, enters the second round with a 2.06 goals-against average and a .922 save percentage.

He struggled against Philadelphia this season, posting a 1-3-0 record with a 2.26 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage. Brodeur will need a few more vintage performances in this second round, as the Flyers can trot out at least three scoring lines.

If the first round showed anything about these two netminders, it put the cracks in Bryzgalov's game on display and showed Brodeur, while he did struggle, can steal a game or two in the series. That ability gives New Jersey the slight edge, and could become a key to this series.

Devils vs. Flyers Playoff Preview: The Defense

In advance of Sunday's opening game of the Eastern Conference semifinals between the Philadelphia Flyers and New Jersey Devils, SB Nation New York will break down the matchup. This morning we'll break down the defense; we'll touch on the goaltending this afternoon.

The Philadelphia Flyers have one of the best offenses in the league, but the defensive battle between the two teams is an almost even battle.

Both teams have offensive skill along the blue line, with the Flyers trotting out names like Kimmo Timmonen and Matt Carle. Marek Zidlicky is the Devils main point producer, a midseason pick-up that gave New Jersey the puck-moving defenseman they searched for throughout the season.

Both teams are also willing to block shots and clog up the shooting lanes. Forwards won't have much room in the offensive zone, as the two stout defenses will provide plenty of challenges.

After losing Chris Pronger for the season, the Flyers blueline underwent some significant change. The team dressed 13 different defensemen during the regular season, and finished seventh in shots allowed. That's a great number considering the inconsistent pairings throughout the season.

In the absence of Pronger, several players stepped up. None were better than Timonen, who finished with the best Corsi rating among Flyers defensemen. His plus-10.34 rating was the highest by far, and showed the positive impact he had when out on the ice. It's not a surprise he finished the regular season with 43 points, which included 39 assists. He faced the toughest competition, and will be heavily relied on against New Jersey's top line.

Matt Carle, Andrej Meszaros and Braydon Coburn also finished with positive Corsi ratings. Pavel Kubina and Nicklas Grossman, who both were acquired during the season, were the only two with negative numbers.

Timmonen, Carle and Kubina will provide the offense for Philadelphia along the blueline. Despite Coburn's four assists, he's more of a physical force, and won't be shy to throw the body around.

New Jersey's blueline remained fairly stable throughout the regular season. The return of Bryce Salvador and a full season of Anton Volchenkov helped New Jersey finish second in the league in shots allowed. Those two have no fear, stepping in front of shots and playing physical along the boards. There were only minor changes, including switching rookie Adam Larsson with fellow first-year defensemen Peter Harrold. Mark Fayne and Andy Greene round out the defense, with both players contributing solid play in either zone.

Five of New Jersey's six regular defensemen (50 or more games played) posted positive Corsi ratings. Larsson, who hasn't played this postseason, led all blueliners in that category. Fayne and Greene, who faced the toughest competition according to the ratings, each finished with plus ratings. Even Volchenkov, who collected just 11 points during the regular season, finished with a plus-1.56 rating. The only defenseman who finished in the red was Salvador, who doesn't have the offensive skill to positively bump his Corsi rating towards the green.

The Devils don't have much offense from their blueline. Zidlicky isn't afraid to shoot, and is one of the best passers among the defenders. Others, like Fayne and Greene, pick and choose their spots to be aggressive. Even Volchenkov will hammer away from time to time. But the defense isn't going to take risks to start the offense.

The Flyers blueline has the numbers, but the Devils are sneaky good. While the numbers trend toward the Flyers, the actual skill is much closer. Expect these two bluelines to put up an even battle throughout the series.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Devils Game 1: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The New Jersey Devils open the second round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs Sunday afternoon against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Flyers vs. Devils Playoff Preview: The Offense

In advance of tomorrow's opening game of the Eastern Conference semifinals between the Philadelphia Flyers and New Jersey Devils, SB Nation New York will break down the matchup. Today we preview the offense; we'll touch on the defense and goaltending in further posts.

The New Jersey Devils will have their hands full with the Philadelphia Flyers offense.

In one of the more lopsided advantages of this series, the Flyers have far better scoring than the Devils. They had four skaters record seven or more points during their first round win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, including Claude Giroux posting a ridiculous 14 points in six games.

Philadelphia's big advantage is their scoring depth. Coach Peter Laviolette can send out three lines he can count on to put the puck in the back of the net. During the regular season, the Flyers had seven forwards that recorded 49 or more points. That's an insane amount of scoring, and it showed during the first round. Granted, Marc-Andre Fleury helped inflate the numbers, but the Flyers can send wave after wave of scoring onto the ice.

Unlike the Florida Panthers, New Jersey can't focus on shutting down one line. If they stop scorers like Claude Giroux and Jaromir Jagr, guys like Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn and rookie Matt Read can take over.

All that offense translates over to the specialty teams, where the Flyers finished first in both powerplay goals (66) and powerplay assists (128). The Devils penalty kill, a surprising weakness in the first round, will need to be sharp against a team that knows how to score with the man advantage.

The Devils don't have nearly as much scoring depth, but they receive production from all four lines. Role players like Stephen Gionta and Steve Bernier played an important role in the first round, making the fourth line a dangerous weapon for coach Peter DeBoer. Even players like Ryan Carter and Dainius Zubrus stepped up, scoring goals in the first round.

New Jersey, though, will need production from their top six forwards. Travis Zajac and Ilya Kovalchuk both finished the first round with three goals, but disappeared in some games. Zach Parise and Patrik Elias netted just two scores, finishing the series tied with Gionta and Bernier. New Jersey will need their big guns in this series, and the pressure will fall on the top six forwards to start producing.

DeBoer mixed the forward lines today at practice, moving Parise off the top line. He's looking to find that spark, but it'll be interesting to see how long he keeps Parise, Zajac and Kovalchuk apart. Remember, those three combined to score the overtime winner in Game 6.

Another key forward for New Jersey will be David Clarkson. He virtually disappeared in the opening round, unable to find his scoring touch. He led the team with five assists, but will need to get to the front of the net and disrupt Ilya Bryzgalov.

The Flyers can send out three great scoring lines, and their depth is virtually unmatched. While the Devils have solid depth, Philadelphia skates away with the offensive advantage.

For more information about the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Flyers, check out Broad Street Hockey.

Rookies No More: Henrique, Harrold and Gionta Key To Devils Playoff Success