BeDeviled

Sporting News, The, Dec 28, 1998 by Mike Keenan

The Devils have found this year they can play the game at a higher offensive pitch and score on a more consistent basis without losing the ability to play defense.

Don't get me wrong; there was nothing wrong with the system Jacques Lemaire coached so successfully. The Devils used to thrive on their ability to defend and use a trapping style to counterpunch. Now, coach Robbie Ftorek's adjustments allow skilled players more freedom on offense. Scott Neidermayer, for example, adds a strong element when he joins the offense, and sometimes leads it, from defense.

Trapping defenses like the Devils' aren't on their way out. But any team must find ways to adjust its play to meet challenges. Just as teams can adjust to the trap, trapping teams can add a wrinkle to keep opponents off stride. Ftorek is doing a nice job of keeping the Devils innovative, and I look for them to be a force in their conference and contend for the Stanley Cup.

Cream of the crop: Just one man's opinion. Here are my candidates for early-season MVP:

Eric Lindros. The Flyers feed off his energy, strength and skill. The way he plays and the determination he shows give the Flyers a basis of power and a tone for their offense.

Mats Sundin. The Maple Leafs have made an impressive turnaround, and Sundin makes his club stronger and allows others to raise their games as well.

Jaromir Jagr. A world-class player, Jagr keeps putting up his points and excels in a trying situation in Pittsburgh.

Keith Tkachuk. Phoenix has been remarkable, and Tkachuk's determination and talent are big reasons for the Coyotes' success.

Canucks coach Mike Keenan is in his 14th season behind an NHL bench and his second as an exclusive NHL analyst for THE SPORTING NEWS. E-mail him at keenan@sportingnews.com and look for his weekly e-mailbag at sportingnews.com.