The Devils used a first period goal by Stephen Gionta (1) and a five on three powerplay tally by Patrik Elias (1) in the second to build a lead that was lost in a sloppy third period.
The Devils add two more points to the ledger and will travel to Montreal on Sunday....
Hell Raisers
1) Both goalies were terrific tonight.
Martin Brodeur had no chance on the first Washington goal and was otherwise excellent,while Michael Neuvirth was excellent for Washington as well.
2) Not pleased with the sloppy third period.
Too many dumb penalties like too many men on the ice,which happened twice and a bench minor to boot!
Some of that can be excused with the short camp,but those dumb mistakes allowed Washington to leave town with a point and kept them in the game.
3) Very nice game from Jacob Josefson,who made a slick pass between two defenders to hit Stephen Gionta on his goal and just missed two of his own.
Perhaps the time in Albany has helped Josefson's game because he seems much more confident on the ice..
4) Stephen Gionta's game was a strong one as well with the goal,which is an even strength because a penalty had just expired,but was really a shorthanded one and Gionta had five shots on the night.
The littlest Devil has played with energy and continues to make the best of what he has...
5) One issue that I will say needs to be addressed or will continue to rear itself is the fourth line or lack of one thus far.
Stefan Matteau will likely return to juniors next week and whichever of Krys Barch or Cam Janssen plays,there are holes that opponents will target.
I'm not sure what the answer is but some possibilities could include Bobby Butler from Albany,signing former Canadien Matthew Darche or an eventual deal.
None of those are guaranteed to solve this issue,but any of those are preferable to the status quo.
Photo Credit:AP Photo
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