It's a cautiously optimistic Larry Robinson who will lead his New Jersey Devils into the playoffs this week. We've set franchise records, but realistically, people will only remember the last thing. And we want it to be a positive. New Jersey, the defending Stanley Cup champions, give every indication of wanting to retain their crown. There doesn't appear to be a team in the conference capable of matching them.
New Jersey is that dominant.
It controls the puck and its four lines are unmatched by any of its rivals. Now all the Devils have to do is live up to the expectations and pressure of repeating. It's sort of reminiscent of my days in Montreal. We've got a reputation. You've certainly got a bigger target on your back when you're the Stanley Cup champs.