The New Jersey Devils clinched a berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs by defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 2-1 at Prudential Center on Thursday.
The Devils (44-28-9) are in the playoffs for the first time since 2012, when they lost to the Los Angeles Kings in the Stanley Cup Final. Their opponent in the Eastern Conference First Round is to be determined.
“It was a really good feeling to hear that buzzer go, see the playoff logo on the Jumbotron and hear that ovation,” said New Jersey left wing Taylor Hall, who is going to the playoffs for the first time in eight NHL seasons. “That’s what it’s all about. I’m excited for what we can do.”