Leafs Draw First Blood

New Jersey vs. Toronto
series

"It felt a lot like (the Ottawa series)," Thomas said. "The first 10 minutes, we wanted to set the tone of the game. Right from the drop of the puck, we played well defensively."

Curtis Joseph stopped all 29 shots for his 12th career playoff shutout and Toronto's penalty killers blanked New Jersey on eight power-play chances.

"The guys did a great job of blocking lanes to the net and getting in shooting lanes. That really helps my job," Joseph said. "Bryan McCabe was excellent with his stick, Tomas Kaberle, all the defense. They were all excellent."

"Hey, this guy is a great goalie," Devils center Bobby Holik said. "One of the top three or four in the league. We just didn't create enough traffic and weren't determined enough and willing to pay the price. When he sees the puck, he plays like he did tonight."