The visiting Islanders were an opportunity for the Devils to score an easy two points and close the gap in the Eastern standings. Instead, they squandered a lead late in the third and had to settle for a disappointing tie.
Long Island's best players, Mike Peca and Alexei Yashin stepped up for the visitors and gave the Devils a handful all night. Peca scored a beauty undressing Brodeur in the first period and Yashin set up two goals including the tying goal with under two minutes left in the final period.
Brodeur was the first to accept blame after the game. "I didn't play well tonight. They only got 22 shots and three got past me. That's not too good" said the dejected goaltender.
While Brodeur has been fabulous for the Devils this season, tonight's game was definitely below his standards. But the blame must be spread around the whole team "We just haven't been consistent" said Brent Sopel. "We are clicking one night and then we lose our legs the next night. We have to get our work ethic going if we want to win the conference."
The Devils will face the Atlanta Thrashers Saturday night. Until recently, the Thrashers were red hot and tearing up the league. They have cooled off a bit but it will still be a tough test and rumour has it, coach Burns is going with back up Potvin to give Brodeur a rest.
From the Swamp
Oliver dePlace