What a nice, entertaining game yesterday between the Devils and Islanders. For two periods at least…it was close, contentious, and at times downright nasty. Then there was the third period. I still would like to know what Sutter said in the Devils’ locker room because that team came out with a fire the likes I haven’t seen in awhile. The Devils ultimately won the game 4-2 and now we will hand some ciders out for some very deserving players.
4th cider — Rick DiPietro (Isles Goalie)
Yeah I know he gave up four goals…but this game could have easily been 8 or 9-2 if it wasn’t for him. In the first and third periods especially, DiPietro faced some unbelievable chances. He gives his team a chance to win and that was all you could ask for during a game like this. He did make 38 saves and played really well. DiPietro probably deserved a better fate.
3rd cider — Brian Gionta (Devils Winger)
Gionta looked like the Gionta of old yesterday. He needs to continue that. If the Devils are going to go deep in the playoffs, they need more efforts like this. The goal Brian scored personified hard work and effort to the max and he was justly rewarded. The little “mighty mite” may just have a hot run left in him just yet.
2nd cider — John Madden (Devils Center — The Magnet)
Very happily it is good to see The Magnet doing well. His shorthanded goal was HUGE yesterday at a time where the game could have gone either way. He nearly had a second shortie later in the game and was all over the ice on the PK. More importantly he was solid on D as always which has to garner him some serious Selke consideration. After all, you have to score 20 goals to nab a nomination it seems. Great effort John…keep it up!!
1st cider — Zach Parise (Devils Center/Winger)
Another great effort from the kid…a goal (GWG) and assist. Nice to see him bouncing back and on a hot streak again after a so-so January and early February stretch where he didn’t do quite as much as he does normally. Parise pumped in four shots on net but was active everywhere on the ice. His speed is a lethal asset and he uses it very well. A much deserving first cider goes out to you Zach…big game yesterday…big game!!
I did want to throw out honorable mentions to Dainius Zubrus and Martin Brodeur for their efforts yesterday. Next week we will have a new game and a new fab 4….enjoy!
