Madden, Gionta ready to return

The Devils finally got some good news today. After long weeks of uncertainty, minor leaguer call-ups, short benches, the Devils welcome the news with enthusiasm. Patrick Elias (groin strain) and Erik Rasmussen (shoulder) returned earlier this week. They are pretty sure to get Gionta back on Sunday after he was put on retroactive injury reserve. Gionta has been testing his groin in practice where he skated with contact.

Reports today indicated that John Madden was ready to play. He took part in practice on Thursday and declared himself ready to play after missing seven games. He might return as early as tonight. Out of all the injured players, Madden was a concern because he did not start skating until last Sunday.

Everybody knows the importance of John Madden and the checking line. The Devils have really been struggling offensively in Elias and Gionta's absence. They also have been struggling defensively and Madden's absence is probably one of the reasons.

The news coincide with the loss of first place in the division to Pittsburgh who beat Boston 4-2 last night. Pittsburgh (45-23-10; 100 points) now leads the Devils (45-24-8; 98 points) by two points. The Devils have a game in hand.

Pittsburgh has 4 games remaining, two home and two away games (at Toronto, against Buffalo, at Ottawa, against the Rangers). All these teams are either in the playoffs or fighting fiercely for a place in the playoffs. The Devils have five games left: against Philadelphia, Boston, Ottawa, at Philadelphia, and against the Islanders. Four of those games will be played at home and three of them are against teams who are definitely outside the playoff picture (Philadelphia and Boston). Considering the recent struggles at home, the Devils really need to turn things around at the Meadowlands.

They might need to put on a streak in order to capture the Division. Just like last year.


David Clarkson who has filled admirably and fit in the lineup. The rookie could be useful for added depth in the playoffs. Richard Matvichuk will also be a player to watch in the next few games since Lou indicated he would play before the playoffs.


"Move over. The savior is here"
John Madden to his teammates as he stepped on the ice yesterday. He may have been joking but the Devils definitely look better with him in the lineup.