It seems that MacLean did consult GM Lou Lamoriello about benching Kovalchuk before Saturday's game against Buffalo. Lamoriello yesterday broke his silence and defended the move after the Devil 3-1 loss to Rangers. While we may never get a clear reason as to why he was benched, yesterdays game could have been an example. Kovalchuk also said that it was an internal matter only going as far as to say it was rest. But, it clearly was not rest, it was probably to send a message to other to start playing their game. If the Devils do not start some sort of a winning streak, it may turn out to be a long season for a team of this high caliber. It seems a lot of the Devils veteran players are not being vocal enough or passionate enough. Players not named Parise and Kovalchuk although they have to better their play have to provide offense. Guys like Elias, Clarkson, Zubrus, Langenbrunner, and so far there a re no signs that they look like they are going to score. This trip will be a good team bonding experience before returning home on November 5th against the Rangers. I say out of the 5 games winning 3 or 4 would be a successful trip.
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Defenseman Anton Volchenkov will not accompany the team out west. He is working out off the ice and should begin skating by weeks end. The Devils might call up a few players from Albany to travel with team, since they only have 20 healthy players. So, its very likely Volchenkov will return on the November 5th game against the Rangers though right now the goal is probably November 10th against Buffalo since there is a long lay off before then. It seems the Devils want him to be 100%, but I certainly did not expect him to be out for this much. There is a slim chance he could play against Chicago on November 3rd next Wednesday.
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