What a Game!

On a night that both goaltenders were outstanding,the Devils were the team that got a break off a deflection as David Clarkson redirected Andy Greene's shot by Cam Ward in the second period for the only goal of the evening and lifted the Devils to a 1-0 win over Carolina.
What an outstanding game played by both teams and who says low scoring games are boring?
This game sure did not fit that bill at all.
The Devils lead the series 3-2 and can clinch the series with a win in Carolina on Sunday.
Martin Brodeur stopped all 44 Carolina shots in earning the shutout.

Hell Raisers

1) Martin Brodeur set the record for career shutouts in the playoff in the game with 22.
Today's goalies have many more games to roll up such numbers,so keep that in perspective.
Brodeur was clearly on his game in this one as he faced more shots than in any playoff game that he has played in.

2) The David Clarkson power play goal was well earned by Clarkson,who was hammered and pounded by the Hurricanes all night.
My personal favorite was as Doc Emrick described it as a "Lacrosse style cross check".
I don't know much about lacrosse,but I do know its a penalty in hockey.

3) The Devils did do one thing that I disagreed with.
Cam Ward deserved being the third star after his great effort last night over Andy Greene,who took the honor for assisting on the Clarkson goal.
Maybe that was some payback for the antics from the Carolina fans after Game 4,but it seems petty to sink to their level.
Ward deserved the star.

4) Other than one penalty,I thought Colin White played very well.
White's game was very important with the loss of Bryce Salvador and he was able to add the physical play that was once a staple of his game.

5) No word on either Salvador or Jamie Langenbrunner's status for Game 6.
Considering the loss of two key players,the victory looks even better...

Bonus Round
Here is the game winner courtesy of David Clarkson!


The Pirates are in San Diego tonight for the start of their three game series with the Padres.

Pitching Matchup
Pittsburgh:Ian Snell (1-2 4.24 ERA) at San Diego:Kevin Correja (0-1 4.09 ERA) 10:05

Slow day,so no bullpen notes.
I hope to be back later with a Seahawks draft preview.

Photo Credits
Hockey:Bill Koustroun-AP Photo