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.