It was the Dallas Stars who spoiled John MacLean's coaching debut in the NHL back on October 8th at Prudential Center when Loui Eriksson scored the game winner in overtime to seal a 4-3 victory. That game's first period offered most Devils fans hope that this was going to be a very special year, at least the first period did. But, an Ilya Kovalchuk post hit seemingly changed the complexion of that game, because seconds later Dallas cut a 2-0 Devils lead to a 2-1 lead. It was then, where things went downhill for John MacLean and the Devils. The Devils followed that OT loss with a 7-2 blowout loss to the Washington Capitals. In late December John MacLean was fired as Devils coach and replaced by Jacques Lemaire.
Last night, the Devils avenged the loss which started their first half misery and mystifying struggles. Newest Star Alex Goligoski took a penalty, which led to the only goal of the game, a Nick Palmieri power play goal. Hedberg made 19 saves for the shutout and it is his second in three games. The Devils struggled on the power play up until that goal, but an angry Jacques Lemaire send them a message before the fourth man advantage.
Shots were 23-19 Devils, but Dallas had the better of the play and more better chances. Anton Volchenkov saved the game for the Devils making a goalie save late in the 2nd. Overall, the Devils won their 8th straight and are now 9 points behind 8th seed Carolina.
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