I was impressed with the play of goalie Ari Ahonen. I thought he looked pretty good. Also Zach Parisi impressed me - getting a goal in the first period. I was sorry to see Jeff Friesen go, but I guess someone had to.
Not too crazy about the new rule changes, but I was kind of tickled to see the Ranger goalie get a penalty for wandering over his boundary line. Marty B doesn't seem too bothered by it though. He has just moved his puck handling to in front of the net and with his long reach, he can snag pucks without crossing the line.
New at the Arena - a flashing sign board that circles the upper deck. Kind of fun, but also kind of distracting. When it changes the ads during the play you get a giant flash of color - Whoa! I guess I'll get used to it and it will fade into the background after awhile.
Parking lot is a mess due to the construction going on for Xanadu. Come early if you want a decent spot.
Devils are collecting food and clothing for Hurricane Katrina victims if you are coming to Friday's preseason against Philly.
More later ...
We're having a hockey season this year - finally! Yay! I still can't believe how long it took to settle this dispute.
I'm looking forward to seeing hockey action again, but I'm not so sure how the Devils will do. Stevens retired, Neidermeyer gone, Elias sick - things are not looking so good right now. But I'll remain optimistic and see how things go. We will be attending at least 1, possibly 2 pre-season games. I can't wait!