I'll come right out and say this.  I'm a huge New Jersey Devils fan.  I've followed them since 1986 and Pat Verbeek had to have his thumb surgically put back on. 

But the Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils series has featured some of the best, most intense hockey I've seen in a long time.  And tonight was the best game of all.  Martin Brodeur put on a shot for the ages, stopping 44 shots for a record-tying 23rd career playoff shutout.  He tied Patrick Roy for the most ever.  Cam Ward was not far behind, only allowing a beautiful re-direction from Devils winger David Clarkson.

The Canes and Devils series is a lot closer than a third versus sixth seed matchup as the Canes were arguably the hottest team in the NHL heading into the playoffs (despte a couple of sputters at the tail end of the season).  There have been five games in the series so far and four of them have been decided by one goal.  Two in overtime.

If you haven't been watching the games, take some time on Sunday and sit down and watch.  I'm pretty sure you'll see a well played, excellent hockey game even if you aren't fond of either of the teams involved.