The Devils looked shaky in their first two playoff games, but once Schmid started in net, they roared back, winning 4 o f 5 games. NJ held the star-studded Rangers offense to just two goals in those four wins. The young net-minder bounced back after a poor outing in Game six, earning his second shutout of the series. The Devils' top 10 defense should be able to hang in there against a very fine Hurricanes D. Carolina does not have a a net-minder to match Shesterkin, the Devils' last opponent.
New Jersey was at their best on the road this season, but Carolina was a very fine home team, so no obvious advantage there. The real difference today is on offense. NJ is both healthier and more potent. They are blindingly fast and gave the Rangers' defense fits once they got over their early jitters. After a slower start, I expect Hughes to step up, but he will have plenty of help. While the Canes are a slight favorite, I am going with the Devils today. Take New Jersey to win on the road in Game one. 10*!