Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: New Jersey Wins On Adam Henrique Double Overtime Goal

It took 83 minutes and 47 seconds, but the New Jersey Devils eventually triumphed over the Florida Panthers, 3-2, in Game 7 thanks to Adam Henrique's goal in double overtime. The Panthers mishandled the puck trying to clear it from their own corner, setting Henrique up for the game winner through the five-hole of Jose Theodore. The goal was his second of the game, and third shot on goal.

The Devils were seemingly on their way to an easy victory after taking a 2-0 lead into the third period. Florida was outshot 11-2 in the second period, and Stephen Gionta notched his second goal of the postseason to give New Jersey full momentum heading into the final 20 minutes of regulation.

Martin Brodeur was solid in net, but wilted in the third period under 19 shots on goal by the Panthers. He gave up two powerplay goals on the Panther's only two opportunities of the period. Meanwhile, the Devils struggled to keep up with the pace set by Florida, notching just six shots in the period.

The two teams played each other to a standstill in the first overtime period. The pace was frenetic, but Brodeur and Theodore came through in several big moments to force play into Friday morning. Brodeur and Theodore finished with 43 and 33 saves, respectively.

The Devils move on to the Eastern Conference semifinals in the second round of the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, where they will face the Philadelphia Flyers. Game 1 will be played at the Wells Fargo Center.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: New Jersey And Florida Headed For Double Overtime

Both teams had their opportunities in a frenetic first overtime period, but neither the New Jersey Devils nor the Florida Panthers could light the lamp, sending Thursday night's Game 7 into double overtime. The next goal will be the last goal of the first round of the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, with all other series having finished up.

The Panthers outshot the Devils 12 to nine in the period. Both teams played plenty of dump-and-chase down the ice, creating several crashing scoring opportunities. Both Martin Brodeur and Jose Theodore were spectacular in net, however. Brodeur made three consecutive saves in one key sequence early in the period.

The Devils earned a powerplay opportunity 3:21 into the period, but again couldn't capitalize. They are 0-for-3 with a man advantage this game. The goaltenders have faced a combined 80 shots on the night.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: Florida Scores Twice In 3rd, Forces Overtime

The New Jersey Devils led 2-0 after two periods, but couldn't hang on as the Florida Panthers scored twice in the final 20 minutes of regulation to tie Game 7 at two goals apiece and force overtime. Marcel Goc notched the equalizer when Sean Bergenheim's slapshot rebounded hard of of Martin Brodeur's pads right to Goc's stick for an easy one-timer along the goal line.

Brodeur was solid in net for most of the game, but faced a massive Panthers' onslaught in the third. He faced 19 shots in total in the final period alone. Both Panthers' goals came off powerplays. Stephen Weiss scored his third goal of the playoffs off assists from Brian Campbell and Mikael Samuelsson.

Jose Theodore turned back six shots on goal for the period. He has 24 saves on the night to 31 for Brodeur.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: New Jersey Leads 2-0 After 2nd Period

The New Jersey Devils are in the driver's seat in Game 7 against the Florida Panthers on Thursday night. After two periods, the Devils lead 2-0 and are now just 20 minutes away from advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals in the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Stephen Gionta scored his second goal of the playoffs to extend the Devils' lead. He backhanded the puck past Jose Theodore, starting over Scott Clemmensen, off a rebound off the boards. Peter Harrold and Ryan Carter were credited with the assists.

The Devils dominated offensively, outshooting the Panthers 11-2 during the period. Martin Brodeur remains perfect with 14 saves on the night. Theodore has stopped 18 of 20 shots faced. After a rough-and-tumble first period, neither team earned a powerplay opportunity in the second.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: New Jersey Leads 1-0 After 1st Period

The New Jersey Devils are up 1-0 after the first period in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Florida Panthers. Adam Henrique put the New Jersey on the board just 1:29 into the game on a tip-in assisted by Anton Volchenkov and David Clarkson.

Otherwise, both teams have been strong defensively. Martin Brodeur turned back all 12 shots faced on net. Jose Theodore, starting in place of Clemmensen, has turned back eight of nine Devils' chances.

The game has so far been called very tightly. The Devils had a 4-3 opportunity after the 7:16 mark for 46 seconds but couldn't capitalize. Bryce Salvador was called for interfering Sean Bergenheim late in the period but the Panthers, too, came up empty.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats. Be sure to stay tuned to SBN New York for more updates.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Panthers Vs. Devils Game 7: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

There's no more exciting event in hockey: game seven of a playoff series, with survival on the line.

The New Jersey Devils will travel to South Florida to take on the Panthers on Thursday night with a shot to continue their season and move on to the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

There's no mystery who will be in net for the Devils, as venerable veteran Martin Brodeur will attempt to do what he has done for his team for so many years, and that's excel when it matters most.

The Devils put together a strong game six effort, outshooting the Panthers 42-16, and will like to continue to put the pressure on Florida again on Thurdsay night.

No need to worry about these teams being motivated, as survival is the ultimate prize.

Game Time: 8:30 p.m. EST

TV Coverage: MSG+ (Local), NHL Network, NBC Sports Network (Joined in Progress, TSN (National))

Radio: WFAN 660 AM

For all the latest Devils news and information, check out In Lou We Trust.

New Jersey Needs Vintage Brodeur In Game 7

VIDEO: Travis Zajac's OT Winner Over Panthers

Devils 3, Panthers 2: Zajac OT Hero As Devils Force Game 7

The New Jersey Devils will live to see a Game 7.

Travis Zajac scored in overtime to lead the New Jersey Devils to a 3-2 overtime win in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals tonight at the Prudential Center.

Game 7 will be Thursday night in the BankAtlantic Center in Florida.

New Jersey had lost their last five consecutive elimination games before tonight. In the overtime period, Zajac received a pass from Zach Parise in the neutral zone, carrying the puck over the blue line. He skated into the right circle and fired a shot through the five hole of Panthers' goalie Scott Clemmensen, scoring the game-winning goal at the 5:39 mark of overtime.

The goal was the third of the postseason for Zajac, who finished with two points (1g, 1a). He leads New Jersey with six points (3g, 3a) this postseason.

Clemmensen stopped 43 of 46 shots, taking his second loss of the series. Martin Brodeur earned his third win of the series, turning aside 14 of 16 shots.

Steve Bernier opened the scoring, giving New Jersey a 1-0 lead at the 16:37 mark of the first period. Ryan Carter fired a shot on net, and Clemmensen directed the rebound to the right circle. Bernier found the puck, spun and fired a shot that went through the legs of Clemmensen and off of his skate. The goal was Bernier's second of the postseason.

Ilya Kovalchuk pushed the lead to 2-0 in the second period, scoring a powerplay goal at 4:21 of the second period. Travis Zajac held the puck near the goal line at the left side of Clemmensen. Kovalchuk snuck down from the point, and was wide open in front of the net. Zajac sent Kovalchuk a pass that he one-timed into the open net for his third goal of the postseason.

Kovalchuk finished with a goal and assist in the win.

Florida tied the game in a 5:44 second span in the middle period. Kris Versteeg cut the lead to one, beating Brodeur with a shot in the slot at the 7:05 mark for his third goal of the postseason.

Sean Bergenheim tied the game at 12:49 of the second period, tallying his third postseason goal. Florida moved into the Devils zone 4-on-2, and Tyler Strachan fired a shot that Brodeur stopped. The puck trickled behind Brodeur and to Bergenheim, who put the shot into an open net.

Brodeur improved his record to 13-21 in playoff overtime games.

For more coverage of the Devils win, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, visit Litter Box Cats.

Panthers vs. Devils Game 6 Update: Devils and Panthers Tied, 2-2, After Regulation

The Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils are tied, 2-2, after regulation in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals at the Prudential Center.

New Jersey finished regulation leading in shots, 36-13. Panthers goalie Scott Clemmensen has been stellar, turning aside 34 shots. Martin Brodeur has stopped 11.

This is the first time the two teams will head to overtime in the series. The Florida Panthers went into 25 overtime games during the regular season, and New Jersey played in 22 contests that went to overtime.

Steve Bernier and Ilya Kovalchuk scored goals for New Jersey, who held a 2-0 lead early in the second period. Kris Versteeg and Sean Bergenheim tied the game in the second period.

Alexei Ponikarovsky almost scored the game-winning goal at the 8:58 of the final period. Ponikarovsky found a pass in front, and had the entire right side of the net open. But he tipped the pass toward the middle of the net, and Clemmensen was able to get a pad on it to make the save.

ANIMATED: Devils' Steve Bernier Pummeled By Panthers' Scottie Upshall

Panthers vs. Devils Game 6 Update: Panthers Rally To Tie Game, 2-2, After Two

The Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils are tied, 2-2, after two periods in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals at the Prudential Center.

New Jersey led 1-0 after one period, and extended the lead to two with an early powerplay tally.

With Tomas Kopecky in the box for high-sticking, Travis Zajac held the puck near the goal line, to the left of Scott Clemmensen. The center fired a pass to Ilya Kovalchuk, who walked in all alone and one-timed the puck into an open net for his third goal of the series.

Zajac's assist was his third of the postseason.

Kris Versteeg cut the lead in half at the 7:05 mark of the second period. Versteeg took a pass from Stephen Weiss in the slot, and put a shot through the legs of Alexei Ponikarovsky. It beat Martin Brodeur stick-side for Versteeg's third goal of the series.

Sean Bergenheim tied the game, 2-2, with his third goal of the postseason at the 12:49 mark. The Panthers worked into the Devils zone with a 4-on-2 rush, and Tyler Strachan put a shot on Brodeur. He made the initial save, but the puck trickled to the left of Brodeur. Bergenheim, parked next to the post, put the loose puck in the back of the net to tie the game.

It's the fourth time the Devils have held a two-goal lead. They've won in two of those previous three games.

The Devils lead in shots, 29-10. Clemmensen has 27 saves through two periods, and Brodeur has just eight through two periods.

Panthers vs. Devils Game 6 Update: Bernier Puts Devils Ahead, 1-0, After One

The New Jersey Devils lead the Florida Panthers, 1-0, after one period in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinals series at the Prudential Center.

Steve Bernier gave New Jersey the lead, scoring at the 16:37 mark to open the scoring. Bernier found a loose puck near the side wall, and fired a shot toward the crease. The puck went through the legs of Scott Clemmensen, who kicked the puck into the back of the net.

The score was Bernier's second of the postseason.

New Jersey outshot Florida, 13-6, during the opening period. At one point, the Devils recorded 11 of 12 shots, but a late flurry of opportunities by the Panthers shrunk the deficit. Martin Brodeur was perfect, stopping all 13 shots.

The Devils, who have lost five consecutive elimination games, can force Game 7 on Thursday night with a win.

Clemmensen, the former Devil, was in net for the Panthers' 4-0 loss in Game 4. Jose Theodore, who posted his second career playoff shutout in Game 5, is out with an injury.

Devils Vs. Panthers, Game 6: New Jersey Tries To Avoid Elimination

All eyes will be on the New Jersey Devils and Floria Panthers Tuesday, as the two will square off in a Game 6, Eastern Conference quarterfinal contest at the Prudential Center (7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network or MSG-Plus). The Devils will be trying to avoid elimination in the best-of-seven series, which could feature a Game 7 if New Jersey is able to pull off the victory.

On Saturday, New Jersey was blanked 3-0 in Game 5 as the Panthers took a 3-2 series advantage. Goaltender Jose Theodore stopped 29 shots to earn the shutout, while his teammates scored a power-play goal in the second period and a tally with seven minutes to go in regulation to break the game open. An empty netter with 34 seconds to go capped the scoring.

As for the injury report: The Devils will be without defenseman Henrik Tallinder and center Jacob Josefson; while the Panthers will be without Keaton Ellerby and forward matt Bradley and Jack Skille.

To catch the contest, here's the basic viewing information:

Location: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ

Game Time: 7;30 p.m.

TV Information: NBC Sports Network

Series: Panthers ahead 3-2.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

For New Jersey, The Focus Can Only Be On Game Six

The New Jersey Devils are facing a familiar desperate situation.

They enter Game Six tomorrow night facing elimination, and having the benefit of home ice hasn't helped them stay alive. They've lost four consecutive series on home ice, and failed to advance to the second round of the playoffs since 2007.

If New Jersey loses tomorrow night, they'll close the door on a season where they exceeded expectations and made it into the top eight. They'll continue the inglorious streak of consecutive postseason games without back-to-back wins, which sits at 27 postseason games.

The team, however, doesn't want to get ahead of itself. The players and coaches are focused on their first elimination game tomorrow night.

"I guess it’s kind of pointless and adds a little more stress to think about two at a time," Devils captain Zach Parise told Tom Gulitti of The Bergen Record. "We can’t win them both tomorrow. We have to have a great game tomorrow. And we know Florida is going to be ready. I think the last game was their best game and we weren’t on top of ours. So, we have to be a lot better in areas that we were better at earlier in the series."

Among the issues for New Jersey has been their inability to play a 60-minute game. They almost blew a three goal lead in Game 1, holding on for a one-goal win. In Game 2, the Devils came out sluggish, and couldn't overcome a three-goal deficit. Game 3 followed a similar script, with the Devils jumping out to a 3-0 lead and losing it on home ice. In their third loss, during Game Five, the team was outhustled and outworked by a Florida Panthers team that looked hungrier.

New Jersey has played just one complete game this postseason - the 4-0 shutout in Game 4. Coming back will require that same effort tomorrow night.

"If you look around the league, there’s a lot of surprises," Ilya Kovalchuk told Gulitti. "We know they’re a good team. They’re there for a reason and to win the series, we just have to play our A Game two games. We’ll take one game at a time and see what’s going to happen tomorrow."

If the Devils leave their "A Game" home, they'll be facing another long summer.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Devils Blanked By Panthers

The New Jersey Devils have been pushed to the brink.

The Florida Panthers, behind goals from Kris Versteeg, Scottie Upshall and Tomas Kopecky, blanked the Devils 3-0 on Saturday night to take a 3-2 series lead in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.

Jose Theodore, who was peppered by New Jersey for three quick goals in game four (and subsequently benched), was fantastic for Florida, stopping every puck that came his way.

A puck misplay by Martin Brodeur led to Upshall's goal in the third period, one that effectively sealed the win for the Panthers (as seen in the video below).

Brodeur still gave his team a chance, however, stopping thirty of thirty-two shots faced.

New Jersey now heads home to preserve its season, and they'll have two days of rest and preparation before game six on Tuesday night.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Florida Grabs 1-0 Lead

The Florida Panthers struck first in their game five matchup against the New Jersey Devils on Saturdayay evening, and they now lead 1-0 after two periods of play.

It didn't take long for Kris Versteeg to net his second goal of the playoffs on a power play strike exactly four minutes into the second period. Stephen Weiss and Brian Campbell were each credited with an assist. (Watch the goal in the video below).

The Devils were outshot by Florida 12-6 in the second period, and have yet to rattle the cage of Jose Theodore, who has been much better than he was the last time out, a game in which the Devils chased him early in the contest.

The winner of tonight's contest will take a 3-2 series lead. All four of the Eastern Conference quarterfinal match ups will advance to at least six games.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Devils, Panthers Tied At Zero After One Period

The New Jersey Devils and Florida Panthers are tied at zero after one period of play, as neither team scored a goal in the first period of game five.

Both teams took 11 shots a piece with Devils' right wing, David Clark, leading the way with three attempts. It was a fairly quiet first period, with the two teams combining for only two penalty minutes – a slashing penalty on Florida's Ed Jovanovski. New Jersey finished without a giveaway in the first and took the puck away from the Panthers four times.

Martin Broduer continues his hot goaltending, as he has now saved 37 consecutive shots, going back to game four.

The winner of Saturday's game will take a 3-2 series lead. Game six will be back in New Jersey, scheduled for Tuesday, April 24.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

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

The New Jersey Devils look to take a crucial Game 5 when their 2012 NHL Playoffs run resumes against the Florida Panthers in the BankAtlantic Center.

New Jersey blanked Florida 4-0 behind 26 saves from Martin Brodeur to match the organization's largest postseason winning margin since May 13, 2006.

The Devils won 24 road games during the regular season, trailing only the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers (both by one game) for the most wins away from home.

Both teams know the significance of Game 5. Ilya Kovalchuk said he thought Game 5 would be "a deciding game," because the winner will need just one win in the final two outings to advance.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Devils Vs. Panthers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: New Jersey Score 3 Goals In 3rd Period, Blanks Florida In Game 4

The New Jersey Devils blanked the Florida Panthers on Thursday night, scoring three goals in the third period on their way to a 4-0 victory. The win tied the opening series of the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at two games apiece as the teams head back to Florida for Game 5.

Steve Bernier and Travis Zajac both scored approximately a minute-and-a-half apart to put the Devils up 3-0 early in the final period. On the first goal, Stephen Gionta dumped the puck off to Bernier and simultaneously screened Scott Clemmensen for an easy wrister. On the second, David Clarkson wrapped around the back of the net to draw the defense and set Zajac up for a head-on one timer between the tops of the circles.

Ilya Kovalchuk put the puck in the top right shelf past Clemmensen on a powerplay with 11:28 to play to cap the scoring for the Devils. The Devils initially got on the board in the second period on a tip-in by Zach Parise, set up by a deflection caused by a rocket slapshot from Marek Zidlicky.

Martin Brodeur was spectacular in the shutout, turning back all 26 shots faced two nights after being benched in Game 3. Clemmensen was less-so starting in place of the struggling Jose Theodore. It remains to be seen who starts Game 5 for Florida.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Devils Vs. Panthers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: New Jersey Up 1-0 After 2 Periods

The New Jersey Devils broke through the seal on the scoreboard in the second period of Game 4 against the Florida Panthers. After 40 minutes, they are up 1-0 and on their way to a tying win in their opening series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

Zach Parise put the Devils up 6:08 into the second period. New Jersey earned a powerplay on a high-sticking call against Keaton Ellerby. Marek Zidlicky set up the goal with a wicked head-on slapshot just in front of the blue line, creating the rebound off of Scott Clemmensen's pads for Parise to capitalize on.

Martin Brodeur has been solid in net coming off his shaky Game 3. So far, he has faced 17 shots against and turned back all of them. The Devils have also peppered Clemmensen with 17 shots, in what has so far been a very evenly played game.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Devils Vs. Panthers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Devils, Panthers Tied At Zero After First Period

The New Jersey Devils and Florida Panthers are tied at zero after one period of play at the Prudential Center in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series.

Neither team could find the back of the net in the first period and both had 10 shots. The Devils and Panthers were also tied in faceoff wins with 8 apiece. Martin Brodeur looked to be in good form for the Devils in net, even making saves he wasn't sure that he had made as you can see below.

The Devils crushed the Panthers in the hits department in the first period, 18-4. The biggest hit of all was this one by Steve Bernier on Keaton Ellerby.

The Panthers had the only power-play chance of the first period when Peter Harrold was sent to the box for interfering with former Devil John Madden.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Game Four A Must-Win For New Jersey

The phrase "must win game" gets overused over the course of a hockey season, with sometimes meaningless games getting extra importance.

But when it comes to the New Jersey Devils' Game 4 matchup with the Florida Panthers, the "must win game" label fits perfectly.

For most of their Eastern Conference quarterfinals series, the Panthers have looked like the better team. They've battled back from large deficits, found success against the league's best power play and have a look and swagger of a team that's been in the position before. All this from a team that qualified for their first playoff berth in 12 seasons.

On the other side, New Jersey has failed to capitalize on their early success. Twice they've had first period leads of 3-0, and twice they've found ways to allow Florida back in the game. They held on for a Game 1 win, but let the wheels fall completely off on their Game 3 loss.

Now facing a 2-1 series deficit, and the possibility of losing home ice, the Devils backed themselves into a must win situation.

"Obviously, we weren't happy with the end result, but at some point in the playoffs, you have to go through a little adversity," Travis Zajac told Tom Gulitti of The Bergen Record. "We can grab the series back with a win tomorrow. I think that's our focus - let's get a win tomorrow and not worry about the rest of the results."

Devils head coach Pete DeBoer will keep the same lineup for Game 3, and will put Martin Brodeur back in net for Game 4. Devils left wing Ilya Kovalchuk said that lineup is still confident, laughing off the thought that losing in Game 3 would rattle them.

"We're a good team and we have to find a way how to bounce back," he told Gulitti. "One game is not going to kill our confidence. It's a good job by them. They didn't do anything crazy or surprising. They were good on the power play and why were they good? Because they were simple. They were shooting the puck from (the point) and a couple good bounces went their way and it went in. So, that's what it's all about. You have to shoot the puck to score goals."

But the end focus, as Zach Parise said, is winning this game.

"Every game is a must-win in the playoffs," Parise told Gulitti. "You have to have that type of attitude. But 2-2 sounds a lot nicer than down 3-1. So, we need to have our best game tomorrow."

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

The New Jersey Devils know they let one slip away in Game Three, but there's no time to feel bad for themselves before Thursday night's game four against the pesky Florida Panthers.

A win would even the series and turn it into a best of three games affair; a loss would have the Devils reeling and playing to survive for the balance of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.

Each team was forced to turn to their back-up net minders in the middle of Tuesday night's action, but only one-the Devils-knows who they will fall back on Thursday, as veteran stalwart Martin Brodeur will once again be between the pipes after a shaky night on the ice.

The Panthers haven't yet decided between Jose Theodore and Scott Clemmensen, but the Devils must be prepared to fire away early again, and this time hope to preserve an early lead.

Game Time: 7 p.m. EST

TV Coverage: NHL Network

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

Devils Vs. Panthers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: New Jersey Falls 4-3 After Taking 3-0 Lead Early

The New Jersey Devils lost 4-3 to the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night, to fall behind 2-1 in their opening 2012 NHL Playoff series in Game 3. Panthers goalie Jose Theodore was pulled just over six minutes into the game after giving up three goals on just six shots against to give the Devils a quick 3-0 lead. The Devils would not light the lamp again, however, giving up four straight goals in the first and second periods.

It was Martin Brodeur's turn to get the hook in the second period after he gave up a soft goal through the five-hole on a Mike Weaver shot that partially looked a pass.

Johan Hedberg came in, and played well after giving up a powerplay goal to Brian Campbell. Unfortunately, the Devils were out-of-sorts on the offensive end coming off a defensive collapse. They did pick things up somewhat in the third period, during which they outshot the Panthers nine to six. They had a golden opportunity to tie the game in the waning seconds of regulation with six skaters on the ice, but Zach Parise tipped the puck wide with an open net in front of him.

Parise, Stephen Gionta and Patrik Elias were the early goal scorers for New Jersey. The Panthers outshot the Devils 26 to 25 for the game.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

ANIMATED: Devils Anton Volchenkov Body Slammed By Panthers Sean Bergenheim

Devils Vs. Panthers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: New Jersey Gives Up Lead, Down 4-3 Going After 2nd Period

The New Jersey Devils have now given up four straight goals after taking a 3-0 lead early in the first period during Game 3 of their opening 2012 NHL Playoff series against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. Martin Brodeur was pulled just over two minutes into the second period, after giving up his third goal of the night on long dump-off shot by Mike Weaver through the five-hole.

Johan Hedberg took over between the pipes and gave up a powerplay goal to Brian Campbell just four minutes later. He was strong the rest of the way against a Panthers squad that appears to be much more-so the aggressor. The Devils did appear to score a goal late in the period but Steve Bernier was called for a very iffy goalie interference and the goal was waved off.

For more on the Devils, head over to the SB Nation blog In Lou We Trust.

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

The New Jersey Devils lead the Florida Panthers 3-2 after the first period of Game 3 on Tuesday night. Panthers goaltender Jose Theodore was pulled from the game after giving up three goals on just six shots in just over six minutes on the ice. Scott Clemmensen came in for the rest of the period, but faced just two shots the rest of the way.

Zach Parise put the Devils up 1-0 just 33 seconds into the game, scoring off a deflection in front of a well-screened goal. Stephen Gionta and Patrik Elias added goals three and six minutes later to put the Devils up 3-0 early, and seemingly on track for a route.

The Panthers picked up their defense after Theodore left, however, and were able to find some offensive rhythm. Sean Bergenheim put Florida on the board with a powerplay goal under four minutes to go to the second period. Just before the period break, Jason Garrison scored again for the Panthers with eight seconds to go in the period to put his team within one point, 3-2.

For more on the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, head over to Litter Box Cats.

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

Devils vs. Panthers Game Two Recap: New Jersey's Late Charge Comes Up Short, Florida Evens Series With 4-2 Win

It took the Florida Panthers 16 years, but they finally have a playoff win.

The Panthers defeated the New Jersey Devils 4-2 in the second game of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals Sunday night at the Bank Atlantic Center. The win tied the seven-game series at 1-1.

Stephen Weiss led the Panthers, netting two power-play goals. Marcel Goc also scored for the Panthers, who won for the first time in the postseason since 1996.

The loss snapped a seven-game winning streak for the Devils.

Weiss opened the scoring in the first period, scoring his first power-play goal just 23 seconds after the game started. Devils defenseman Andy Greene was sent to the penalty box for tripping Goc 11 seconds into regulation, giving Florida the power play opportunity. Mikael Samuelsson's point shot deflected off a mass of players in front and bounced right to the stick of Weiss. Weiss fired it into the open net for his first goal of the postseason.

Weiss' next powerplay goal came at the 1:12 mark into the second period, and extended the Panthers' lead to 2-0. With New Jersey facing a 5-on-3 power play, Goc was hit with a shot in front of Martin Brodeur. The puck deflected right to the stick of Weiss, who beat the Devils' goalie over the glove for his second goal of the night.

Weiss became the first player in the series to record a multi-goal game. The Panthers have converted on three of their six power play attempts against a Devils team that set the NHL record for penalty kill efficiency.

Goc gave Florida a 3-0 lead at the 14:39 mark. Skateing the puck into the right circle, Goc sent a shot that deflected off the shoulder of Brodeur and into the back of the net for his first goal of the postseason.

New Jersey closed the gap in the third period, scoring twice in a span of 2:02 to cut the deficit to one.

Travis Zajac put New Jersey on the board, netting his first goal of the postseason 48 seconds into the final frame. Zajac took a pass from Andy Greene and skated in on Jose Theodore, putting a shot off the pads and into the net for his first goal of the postseason.

Ilya Kovalchuk shrunk the deficit to 3-2 at the 2:02 mark of the third period. Adam Henrique held the puck along the side boards and sent a pass to the front of the net. Kovalchuk, with one hand on his stick, deflected the pass past Theodore for his first goal of the postseason.

New Jersey couldn't get that final goal, and Tomas Fleischmann scored an empty-netter with one-tenth of a second remaining to ice the victory.

Theodore finished with 23 saves for his first win of the postseason. Martin Brodeur stopped 20 shots in the loss.

Game Three will be Tuesday night at the Prudential Center.

For more on the Devils, check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, head over to Litter Box Cats.

ANIMATED: Devils Leave Ice Under A Hail Storm Of Rubber Rats

Devils vs. Panthers Game Two Update: New Jersey Trails, 3-0, After Two Periods

The New Jersey Devils trail the Florida Panthers 3-0 after two periods of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals tonight at the Bank Atlantic Center.

New Jersey, who trailed by one entering the second period, saw its deficit increase to three after goals from Stephen Weiss and Marcel Goc.

Weiss scored his second goal of the game just 1:12 into the middle frame. With the Devils still killing off a 5-on-3 powerplay, Goc was hit with a shot in front of Martin Brodeur. The loose puck bounced to the stick of Weiss, who had the entire net to shoot at for his second goal of the postseason.

Weiss became the first player in the series to record a multi-goal game.

Goc scored his first goal of the postseason at the 14:39 mark, extending the Panthers lead to 3-0. Goc fired a shot from the right circle that hit the shoulder of Brodeur and rolled behind the Devils goalie.

The Panthers are 3-for-6 on the powerplay in the series. During the regular season, Florida scored almost a quarter of their goals on the power play, and it was one area the New Jersey acknowledged it would need to control to win the series.

Jose Theodore, who allowed three goals in Friday night's loss, has stopped all 13 Devils shots.

Devils vs. Panthers Game Two Update: Florida Leads, 1-0, After One Period

The Florida Panthers lead the New Jersey Devils 1-0 after one period in the second game of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals at Bank Atlantic Center.

Stephen Weiss scored just 23 seconds into the first period to give Florida the lead.

Devils defenseman Andy Greene was called for tripping Marcel Goc just 11 seconds after the opening faceoff. On the power play, Mikael Samuelsson's point shot deflected off of a mass of players in front of the net, and went right to the stick of Weiss. He fired a shot high into the net for his first goal of the postseason.

New Jersey, who set a record for penalty-killing efficiency this season, has allowed two power-play goals in the series.

Martin Brodeur stopped two of three shots against in the first period. Jose Theodore stopped all four shots he faced.

David Clarkson and Alexei Ponikarovsky were sent to the box, giving Florida a late 5-on-3 powerplay advantage. The Panthers will have 1:40 remaining of power play time to begin the second period.

Devils vs. Panthers Game Two: New Jersey Looks For 2-0 Series Lead

Most away teams in the playoffs look for a split in the first two road games, negating home ice and taking a tied series back to their arena.

The New Jersey Devils don't want to settle for that split. They want two wins at the Bank Atlantic Center.

"The pressure shifts to them and we've got to get greedy now and come out and try to get two," Devils coach Pete DeBoer told Tom Gulitti of The Bergen Record.

New Jersey will look to open up a 2-0 series lead over the Florida Panthers tonight at the Bank Atlantic Center. Gametime is 7:30 p.m., and can be seen on either the NBC Sports Network or MSG Plus.

The Devils won the first game of the series, 3-2, Friday night. New Jersey fired 26 shots on net in the first period, and the trio of Patrik Elias, Dainius Zubrus and Ryan Carter helped open a 3-0 advantage for the Devils. Florida would answer back in the second period, with Sean Bergenheim and Kris Versteeg cutting the lead to one.

New Jersey would hold on in the third period, skating away with the victory. They're 14-5 all-time in series where they win the first game.

Florida, in the playoffs for the first time since 2000, hasn't had much postseason success. They've lost nine straight postseason games, with their last win coming in a first round series against the New York Rangers in 1997.

Ilya Kovalchuk expects a different Panthers team for tonight's game.

"We've just got to take one game at a time and it's pressure on them now," he told Gulitti after yesterday's morning skate. "We won the first game and tomorrow it's a big test for us. They're going to bring their A game for sure. They were a little slow from the start, maybe a little nervous for the first game, but tomorrow they'll be ready."

Devils captain Zach Parise expects New Jersey to match that intensity.

"I don't think the attitude in here is going home happy with a split," he told Gulitti. "We want to win that second one really badly. I'm sure they're preaching the same thing that it's one game. We're saying the same thing. It's only one game. We've got a long ways to go."

"We have to be prepared to match whatever they're going to raise as far as their intensity goes," DeBoer told Gulitti. "No one wants to be in a 0-2 hole heading onto the road for two games, so I think we're going to see their best game and we've got to be ready for that."

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

The New Jersey Devils will look to take a 2-0 series lead on the Florida Panthers.

Panthers vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: (Game Recap)

Even in the postseason, Martin Brodeur continues to reach career milestones.

The New Jersey Devils goalie stopped 24 shots, earning his 100th career playoff win as New Jersey defeated the Florida Panthers, 3-2, in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals at Bank Atlantic Center.

New Jersey jumped all over the Panthers in the first period, closing out the opening frame with a 3-0 lead. Patrik Elias scored the first goal of the series, beating Jose Theodore at the 6:51 mark to give New Jersey the 1-0 lead. Dainius Zubrus started the play, picking off a pass in the offensive zone. He sent a cross-ice pass to Elias, who was all alone in the left circle. Elias moved in alone on Jose Theodore, who went down to block the bottom of the net. The Devils' center stickhandled and put his shot over Theodore for the early lead.

That goal was the 41st career playoff score for Elias. He know has 118 postseason points (41g, 77a).

The Devils struck twice in 45 seconds, blowing the game open later in the period.

Zubrus started the surge, netting a powerplay tally at the 14:11 mark. Martin Brodeur skated to the middle of the Devils end, firing a pass up to David Clarkson at the Panthers blue line. He sent a backhanded pass to Zubrus, who moved into the slot alone on Theodore. His shot beat the Panthers goalie to the short side for his first goal of the playoffs.

Ryan Carter scored the third goal of the period, extending the Devils lead to 3-0 at 14:56 of the first period. The former Panther stripped Ed Jovanovski of the puck in the neutral zone, and carried it in on Theodore. He put a shot glove side for his first goal of the postseason, and the eventual game-winner.

New Jersey was the better team in the first period, outshooting the Panthers, 26-9. That shot total broke a franchise playoff record for shots in period. The Devils previous record was 20 shots during the second period of a game against the New York Rangers on May 11, 1997.

Florida responded in the second period, cutting the lead to one.

Sean Bergenheim put Florida on the board at 7:44 of the middle frame. Bergenheim entered the Devils zone along the side boards, skating around Anton Volchenkov. He cut to the front of the net and beat Brodeur with a chip shot inside the far post for his 10th career playoff goal.

Kris Versteeg cut the lead to 3-2 with a powerplay goal at the 15:42 mark of the second period. Versteeg held the puck near the side boards, and split the Devils penalty killers. He skated in alone on net, sliding the puck through Brodeur's five-hole for his first goal of the postseason.

Versteeg now has six goals in five games against the Devils this season.

Theodore faced only 12 shots between the second and third period, and finished with 35 saves in the loss.

Game 2 will be Sunday at the Bank Atlantic Center.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: (2nd Period Score Update)

The New Jersey Devils lead the Florida Panthers, 3-2, after two periods in Game One of their opening playoff series at the Bank Atlantic Center.

Sean Bergenheim scored the Panthers first goal at 7:44 of the middle frame. Bergenheim carried the puck over the blue line, beating Devils defenseman Anton Volchenkov around the boards. He cut to the front of the net and poked the puck by Martin Brodeur for his first goal of the postseason.

Kris Versteeg cut the deficit to one with a powerplay tally at the 15:42 mark of the period. Versteeg took a puck near the side boards and split the defense. He cut toward Brodeur and slipped the puck through the five hole of Brodeur for his first goal of the playoffs.

Versteeg has been one of the Panthers best forwards against New Jersey this season. He scored five goals against the Devils in the four regular season meetings, and combined with linemates Stephen Weiss and Tomas Fleischmann to score 11 goals against New Jersey.

Volchenkov, who was also burned on the Versteeg powerplay goal, had a rough period. He was beat on two goals, and also took an interference penalty near the end of the first period.

Brodeur had to be good with his team down a man, stopping several quality scoring chances near the end of the period. He's stopped 18 of 20 shots through two periods.

Florida outshot the Devils, 11-6, in the second period. New Jersey still holds the lead in shots, 32-20.

Panthers Vs. Devils, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: (1st Period Score Update)

The New Jersey Devils lead the Florida Panthers, 3-0, after one period in Game One of their opening round playoff series at the Bank Atlantic Center.

Patrik Elias scored his 41st career playoff goal at the 6:51 mark to give New Jersey the lead. Dainius Zubrus started the play, picking off a pass in the offensive zone. He sent a cross-ice pass to Elias, who was wide open in the left circle. The Devils' center held the puck and stickhandled in on Jose Theodore, who went down to the ice. Elias sent a puck over the Panthers goalie and into the net.

Two goals just 45 seconds apart extended the Devils lead to 3-0.

Zubrus scored the first one, netting a powerplay goal with 5:49 left in the first period. After a clear down the ice, Martin Brodeur came out of the net and played the puck to David Clarkson, who was standing near the Panthers blue line. Clarkson carried the puck in and chipped a pass to Zubrus, who moved in all alone on Theodore. He beat the Panthers goalie five hole for his first goal of the playoffs.

Ryan Carter scored just 45 seconds later to put the Devils up three. Carter stripped Panthers defenseman Ed Jovanovski near the penalty boxes, and moved in on Theodore. His shot beat the Panthers goalie glove side.

The Devils outshot the Panthers, 26-9, in the first period. The 26 shots set a franchise playoff record, surpassing 20 shots on net in the second period on May 11, 1997 against the New York Rangers.

Despite the low shot total, Florida almost netted it's first goal with just 22 seconds remaining in the opening period. Brodeur made an arm save on Wojtek Wolski, who fired a shot from the slot.

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

New Jersey Devils at Florida Panthers Breakdown: The Goalies

In the week leading up to the opening game between the Florida Panthers and the New Jersey Devils, SBNation New York will take a look at all aspects of the first-round matchup. Make sure to check out SBNation's StoryStream for all the news and analysis of the series.

Despite most pundits picking the New Jersey Devils to beat the Florida Panthers in the opening round of the NHL playoffs, the series is closer than it appears. New Jersey has the stronger offense, with the ability to send out at least three lines that can score. Florida can generate offense from the blueline, which is the biggest advantage they have in the series.

When it comes to the goaltending, the series tilts slightly toward the Devils.

That's not to say the Panthers are running out of shape beer league goalies. Jose Theodore played in 53 games this season, posting a 22-16-11 record with a 2.46 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage. He struggled late in the season, posting a 5-5-5 record between March and April. He posted an ugly 3.39 goals-against average, which was inflated after two bad April loses. He heads into the postseason as Florida's number one goalie, but he's not the unquestioned starter.

Every Devils fan is familiar with Florida's other goalie, Scott Clemmensen. He was 14-6-6 with a .2.57 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage. He posted great numbers post all-star break, going 8-4-1 in 15 starts. He also posted a better goals-against average during the second half of the season, and could supplant Theodore as the team's go-to goalie for the series. We all know Clemmensen's success against New Jersey. In five games against the Devils, he's 4-0-0 with a 2.05 goals-against average and a .937 save percentage.

In a bit of gamesmanship, Florida is keeping their starter close to the vest, and will wait until Friday to reveal who will be in between the pipes for the series opener.

It's no secret who will be between the pipes for the New Jersey Devils. Martin Brodeur, who has backstopped the Devils to three Stanley Cup victories, will look to end a long playoff drought. He hasn't won a playoff series in four years, and it's been suggested that he may be a weak link on this year's team. He played 59 games this season, going 31-21-4 with a 2.41 goals-against average and a .908 save percentage. He rebounded from an ugly first half, posting a 17-9-2 record with a 2.05 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage during the second half of the season.

Brodeur is one win shy of 100 postseason wins, which is yet another milestone he'll add to his Hall of Fame resume. But he's still got a lot to prove. Sports Illustrated's Brian Cazeneuve said that, unlike in year's past, Brodeur is a wild card:

Give the Devils' capacity to play well in front of him, he may not need to steal games every night, but the man with 656 wins is still one lackluster effort away from slinking away in disappointment and one great run away from going out in glory.

If needed, Devils coach Peter DeBoer could turn to Johan Hedberg. The Devils backup went 17-7-2 this season, posting a 2.22 goals-against average and a .918 save percentage. The players voted him the team's "Player's Player" and "Unsung Hero" award winner, and he carried the team through the early part of the season.

While Brodeur has faced some harsh criticism, it's his playoff experience that helps push the advantage to the Devils. It's not an automatic win for the Devils, but it's enough to give them an advantage over Florida.

For more information on the Devils, make sure to check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, head over to Litter Box Cats.

New Jersey Devils vs. Florida Panthers Breakdown - The Defense

In the week leading up to the opening game between the Florida Panthers and the New Jersey Devils, SBNation New York will take a look at all aspects of the first-round matchup. Make sure to check out SBNation's StoryStream for all the news and analysis of the series.

The New Jersey Devils have a big advantage offensively over the Florida Panthers, with at least three lines capable of scoring when on the ice.

But, when looking at the team's defensive depth, the matchup becomes much closer.

The Florida Panthers blueline is led by Brian Campbell, who some argue is one of the best defensemen in the team's history. His offensive performance was outstanding. He totalled 53 points this season, which included 49 assists. He led the team in that category, and was second in the league in helpers. He made up for about 14 percent of the team's assists. Those are ridiculous numbers from the blueline, and it gives the Panthers something the Devils lack - a true offensive defenseman.

Campbell also took care of his own end, leading the Panthers with a 4.43 Corsi rating. He was just one of two Panthers defensemen to finish with a positive Corsi rating, which takes into account the on-ice shot differential. There's no question that Campbell is a complete defenseman, and one that gives Florida an advantage in the series.
But past Campbell, there's not too much that's impressive. Jason Garrisson can also score (16g, 17a), but he hasn't done much during the second half of the season. He's the only other defensemen to post a positive Cori rating (team-leading 5.32).

Mike Weaver, Dmitry Kulikov, Ed Jovanovski and Eric Gudbranson round out Florida's defense. Kulikov is the big hitter, but Gudbranson led the team with 154 hits. All four of those players carry a negative Corsi rating, and the team's save percentage actually drops when they're on the ice. Look for New Jersey to exploit those matchups.

New Jersey lacks the true offensive defenseman that Florida has in Campbell. Adam Larsson led all blueliners with just 18 points (2g, 16a), and the rookie has found himself fighting to keep his spot in the lineup. Andy Greene, who was always expected to fill that role, finished the year with just 16 points (1g, 15a). Marek Zidlicky has found success in New Jersey, with all eight points this season coming in his 22 games in a Devils sweater. The lack of defensive scoring is a huge weakness on this team, and one that could come back to haunt them.

What the Devils lack in defensive scoring, they more than make up for in physical play. Anton Volchenkov led the team with 177 hits, and Bryce Salvador finished third on the team with 106. New Jersey's defense isn't afraid to bring the body, and they'll use it with regularity against the Florida forwards. The group won't be confused for the heavy hitting Scott Stevens and Ken Daneyko days, but they play with enough force to disrupt an opponent.

Unlike Florida, the majority of the Devils defense posted positive Corsi numbers. Only Salvador finished with a negative Corsi rating. The team was still 23rd in goals against, allowing 195.

Coach Peter DeBoer doesn't believe a good playoff team needs a headline-grabbing defenseman like Campbell to be successful.

"I haven't looked back," DeBoer told Tom Gulitti of The Bergen Record. "I don't think that's the rule that every Stanley Cup champion over the years has had that type of guy. Those guys are few and far between and there's a lot of good teams that don't have that luxury."

Even though the teams are even on paper, with Florida holding an advantage in defensive scoring, DeBoer thinks his players are more than capable of getting the job done.

"i think so," he told Gulitti. "I know from outsiders looking in, the names on the piece of paper don't wow you, but I think they defend by committee. There's no egos back there. They just want to do a good job and get the job done. I think they've been quietly very effective."

For more information on the Devils, make sure to check out In Lou We Trust. For news on the Panthers, head over to Litter Box Cats.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Devils Take On Panthers In Opening Round

Despite the fact that they finished with eight more points than Florida, New Jersey will travel for its opening game in the 2012 NHL playoffs to take on the Southeast Division champion Panthers.

But the Devils know enough not to underestimate these cats, as the two teams split the season series two games apiece, including a win on the road for each squad.

Unlike many of the other teams set to begin play in the NHL playoffs, Florida doesn't boast an offensive star, relying instead upon a balanced attack and an opportunistic power play.

Tomas Fleischmann is the closest thing to a stud winger on Florida's roster, as he led the team with a modest 27 goals and 61 points.

New Jersey, meanwhile, must be wary of the tight games with Florida. The Panthers played nearly half of their regular-seasons to a one-goal margin, finishing with 17 victories by just a single tally.

Each team still has ample time to scout and prep, as the opening puck drop is still three full days away.

For more news and notes on the Devils, visit In Lou We Trust. For all your Panthers news, check out Litter Box Cats.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Devils Vs. Panthers Preview

The first-round NHL Playoff series between the New Jersey Devils and Florida Panthers may not draw the most television eye balls, but it could be one of the most competitive series. The Devils, the No. 6 seed, made the playoffs despite playing in the Eastern Conference's very though Atlantic Division, while the No. 3-seeded Panthers won the Southeast Division despite not having a lot of firepower.

Somehow, the New Jersey advanced onto the postseason after having a mediocre season from future Hall of Fame goaltender Martin Brodeur. A lot the success can be contributed the play of high-priced star Ilya Kovalchuk (83 points), veteran Patrick Elias (78 points) and Zach Parise (69 points).

Winger David Clarkson chipped in 30 goals, while also compiling 138 penalty minutes, and Calder Trophy candidate Adam Henrique was one of the league's top rookies with 51 points

Meanwhile, the Panthers could be the best story of the NHL's regular season. Florida features a mish-mash of that was well coached by Kevin Dineen.

The Panthers have a solid collection of blue-liners in defensemen Brian Campbell (53 points), Jason Garrison (16 goals) and Dimitry Kulikov (28 points in only 58 games), but they did end the regular season losing five of their last six games.

Here's a look at the series schedule and TV coverage:

For more news and notes on the Devils, visit In Lou We Trust. For all your Panthers news, check out Litter Box Cats.

New Jersey Devils vs. Florida Panthers: The Offense

In the week leading up to the opening game between the Florida Panthers and the New Jersey Devils, SBNation New York will take a look at all aspects of the first-round matchup. Make sure to check out SBNation's StoryStream for all the news and analysis of the series.

There aren't too many aspects of the opening round series the New Jersey Devils would be considered dominant. But, when looking at the team's offensive output, it's almost a no contest.

Florida enters the playoffs for the first time in 12 years, and managed to hold off the Washington Capitals for the Southeast Division champs. They enter the game 27th in the league in goals (197), and were 27th in points (536). Tomas Fleischmann, who played all 82 games for the first time in his career, led the Panthers with 27 goals and 61 points. Kris Versteeg was one of their clutch scorers, netting 23 goals. Stephen Weiss was the third scorer to reach the 20-point plateau, and Brian Campbell led the blueline attack with 49 assists and 53 points.

The Panthers carry an abysmal minus-24 goal differential into the series. That's better than just nine teams in the league and the worst since the lockout. It's the worst since the Ottawa Senators made the playoffs sporting a minus-13 goal differential in 2010. They lost in six games to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Devils won't be able to sit back against Florida, though. Fleischmann, Versteeg and Weiss scored seven of the Panthers' 11 goals against New Jersey this season.

New Jersey comes into the playoffs with a better offensive output. Ilya Kovalchuk highlighted a group that finished 14th in the league in points (589) and 15th in the league in goals (216). Kovalchuk led the team with 37 goals and ranked fifth in the league with 83 points. But he wasn't the only one to produce. The Devils received balance scoring from three of their lines, with guys like Patrik Elias (26g, 52a) and David Clarkson (30g, 16a) providing above-average secondary scoring. Throw in the likes of Zach Parise and Adam Henrique, and the Devils can send out some serious firepower.

The Devils enter with a solid goal differential. The team was plus-11 this season, and much of that came from the stellar penalty kill. That's the fifth-best goal differential among the Eastern Conference playoff teams, far behind the better offensive teams like the Philadelphia Flyers (plus-35) and the Boston Bruins (plus-61).

Despite the solid numbers, Devils goalie Martin Brodeur thinks Kovalchuk's play will be key to getting the offense going.

"That will open it up for some other guys to be successful," he told Rich Chere of The Star-Ledger. "Kovy is a key for us. He's going to be challenged in certain areas he needs to be ready for and he's excited for the challenge, just by talking to talk about it the last month or so. He's probably the one that will have the hardest time waiting. He wants to get going and that's a great thing."

In the battle of offenses, there's no question - the New Jersey Devils have the advantage.

For more news and notes on the Devils, visit In Lou We Trust. For all your Panthers news, check out Litter Box Cats.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: The New York Rangers And New Jersey Devils Get Going This Week

It's finally that time of year in the NHL. The 82-game regular season has come to a close and the Stanley Cup Playoffs are upon us after six months of jockeying for position.

The New York Rangers have put themselves at the top of the Eastern Conference, taking home ice advantage for the first time since 1996 in a series.

John Tortorella's group finished with 109 points and will now play the Ottawa Senators, a team the Rangers actually lost to three out of four times this year. New York should still be the heavy favorite, but don't discount the pesky Senators, who most expected to be among the conference's cellar-dwellers at the beginning of the campaign.

For a complete look at the Rangers first round schedule, click here.

The New Jersey Devils are a different story altogether.

Behind the dynamic duo of Ilya Kovalchuk and Zach Parise, New Jersey accumulated 102 points which was only good enough for fourth place, in the Atlantic Division.

The sixth-seeded Devils will start the postseason against the Florida Panthers, who have been brutal down the stretch but hung on to the Southeast crown. Nobody is more favored going into their match-up than New Jersey.

For a complete look at the Devils first round schedule, click here.

For more coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, be sure to check out our blogs Blueshirt Banter and In Lou We Trust. Also take a peek at our StoryStream and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NHL Playoffs Schedule: Devils Vs. Panthers And The Rest Of The Eastern Conference

The New Jersey Devils polished off their regular season with a 4-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. The result helped finalize the 2012 NHL Playoff first-round match-ups and TV schedule, which features the No. 6-seeded Devils playing the No. 3 Florida Panthers.

Here's a look at the series schedule and TV coverage:

Here's how the rest of the Eastern Conference shapes out.

No. 1 New York Rangers vs. No. 8 Ottawa Senators: The Sens' won the season-series 3-1.
No. 2 Boston Bruins vs. No. 7 Washington Capitals: The Caps won the season-series 3-1.
No. 4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. No. 5 Philadelphia Flyers: This inter-state rivalry featured Flyers winning the season series 4-2

Here's what the Western Conference looks like:

New Jersey Devils Playoff Preview: The Matchup