INSIDE HOCKEY

Out of all the photos in this collection that caught my eye, the one that happens to be the funniest is the one where I caught on camera a little thievery on the ice.

In one of the random group shots I got on the ice, I captured Brendan Shanahan trying to steal Martin Brodeur's catching glove. He told us after the game that he had tried to hide the glove under his jersey, but his pregnant belly was caught and he had to give the glove back.

He said he was trying to steal the glove so that he could sell it on Ebay. With all of the stories I've been hearing about Shanny these past few weeks, including hijacking other players Wikipedias (it hasn't been proven yet that he's the culprit), it would seem befitting that he is a New Jersey Devil again, because he's such a little devil. He's completely up to no good.

Here are a few of the photos from Marty's night on St. Patrick's Day.

Why the Devils Won: Simply put, the Devils controlled the puck allowing plenty of offensive opportunities in the Canes' zone. Devils outshot the Canes 2:1. As serious as this time of year is, the Devils looked like all they were doing was having fun out on the ice, while the Canes looked like they were defeated midway through the second period. Devils played smart and managed to throw some new plays and moves out on the ice that hasn't been seen before. It apparently worked through the Canes incredible defense. It literally broke it down and allowed the Devils the win over Cam Ward.

Why the Hurricanes Lost: As amazing as the defense has been for the Canes, the Devils were able to tear it down when Mike Mottau scored from the blueline. After that, it sealed the Canes fate as they lost all momentum and practically handed the game over after putting up only a single goal. The Canes entered the playoffs without that same fierceness as they had displayed a few weeks ago that had many believing that the Canes were the scariest team in the league. They're not so scary anymore. Canes lacked the drive to win.

Key Moment: Devils defenseman Mike Mottau scores the first playoff goal in the series. After scoring only one goal in the regular season, Mottau set the tone for the game that Devils would dominate.

What's Next For Both Teams: With Brodeur rested and healthy, he has kicked his game up for the playoffs. It will be a difficult series for the Canes. Canes will need to find that fierce edge that made them so incredible in order to defeat the Devils. Without it, they have nothing.