In a match-up which traditionally should feature two NHL powerhouses instead would be a game between a desperate Devils team and a highly octane Penguins squad. Last year these two teams were headed in the same direction, but this year the Devils are in a free fall. Tonight's game could be John MacLean's last stand as Devils coach should they lose with three days off between now and the Ottawa game on Friday night at Ottawa. So, it could give the new coach time to work some practices with the Devils.
The Penguins have won 9 straight games, most recently a 7-2 rout of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and they might put up a similar thumping on division rival Devils tonight. So, the Devils have to play with fear and desperation if they want to have any chance to finally right the sinking ship and get back into a fight for the 7th or 8th spot in the playoffs, which is where they will likely finish based on how things look right now.
The Devils changed up the lines by moving Tedenby to the fourth line with Gionta and Pelley and moved Zubrus to the Right Wing with Elias and Arnott. Zubrus should provide space for Elias or Arnott, but it only might be a temporary fix.
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Former Devils winger Bill Guerin announced his retirement this morning and will be honored before tonight's game against the Penguins. Guerin won two Stanley Cups with New Jersey and Pittsburgh. He also played for Edmonton, Boston, Dallas, St. Louis, New York Islanders, San Jose. Guerin served as the Islanders captain from 2007-2009 before being traded and winning the cup with the Penguins. Guerin failed to make the Flyers in training camp this fall. In 1263 career games he has 429 goals and 427 assists and 856 points.
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