This is a short but simple letter but here it goes….
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Dear New Jersey Devils:
Simply it is time. The year is 2012 no matter how much the NHL and certain fans want to say it is not. It all comes full circle for Martin Brodeur, who probably never expected to be this close once again. Though in his heart of hearts he probably believed it. The Devils are one year removed from the worst season in over two decades.
This is why this playoff run is so special because unlike the team across the river, New Jersey has been in two elimination overtime games and survived both. Everyone likes to talk about that other team and their ability to bounce back but how about New Jersey? Better yet, why not New Jersey? It has been a ride that has not been easy on the fans or their stomachs. Even the media and players have felt it. This Devils team is a “team” in every sense of the word. You have gone to the wall and done the unexpected.
Yet there is still more work to be done. Even eliminating the Flyers was not as easy as it looked. It took a wealth of discipline that few thought this team had. Florida was a lot tougher than most expected and yet New Jersey made it past the adversity. No matter what happens tonight, you have showed us something special that warms every fan’s heart. This has been truly a ride that has had its ups and downs, even some sideways moments. Every run simply has them.
Game 6 is tonight against the New York Rangers. The Rangers are a great team in their own right that is extremely tight in the team concept. There is or was a perception that you are not as team driven. That could not be further from the truth. Your depth and balance is the reason why you are at this point.
A Friday Night in Newark in a gorgeous arena is something New Jersey fans could never have dreamed about ten years ago. This is your house. No one shares it with you unless you want them to. That much is clear. Tonight is different. The team across the river may have their time in the future but as Mikey from “The Goonies” said, “This is our time“.
With that said, there is only one thing left to say. Let’s go Devils! Thank you.
Sincerely,
Chris Wassel
