Conference Semis, Devils VS Hurricane: Game Four.

First Intermission:

I am shocked. What a difference between Game One. I was expecting the Devils to just lose tonight and get swept. They’ve been controlling the play, and more importantly, taking the body. Anytime you physically dominate your opponent (or your sex partner), you’re going to see results. Cam Janssen will get ink for his hits, but I saw rookie Zach Parise take the body.

Second Intermission:

I can feel the tempo decreasing a little. They lead 5-1. They’ll probably win this game. Stranger things have happened. Again, the tempo has decreased, and I can tell when they’re not really putting forth 100% to get the puck. There have been some breakdowns on the power play, causing some shorthanded opportunities. I’m seeing Zach Parise putting a lot of effort. I like that. A series, they say. Even if they win, the series is 3-1. And you just don’t come back from being down 3-0. Devils came back after being down 3-1 in a series against Philadelphia, but. It’s a series.

Post-Game:

I like seeing the fourth line more. You can not survive the Stanley Cup Playoffs without a physical fourth line. Not only does it take the pressure off your top guys, but it slams your opponent. Devils force a game five. I expected them to lose this game, but that’s because I’m realistic. Nobody comes back after being down 3-0. But you can come back from being down 3-1. However, the `Canes will play better on home ice and will take the play to the Devils tomorrow night. Maybe with some more tall words from Scott Stevens and the Devils can force a Game 6. Momentum can shift fast. Anything can happen.

Final Score: Devils 5, Hurricanes 1
Series: 3-1, Hurricanes