Devils Blow Away Leafs

New Jersey
Devils

"We've showed that we can play when the score is close, a one goal game, but we also showed tonight that we can open things up when everybody is going," said Scott Gomez, who scored a goal . "The key guys came out tonight."

Martin Brodeur in the Devils' net stopped 22 shots and frustrated all Toronto's efforts holding the shutout until 4:17 remaining in the third period.

"I'd rather win games like this, 5-1, than 1-0," said Brodeur. "Shutouts are nice, but I'm not here for personal stats. I don't think anyone here is looking for that. It's winning, that's what counts."

Patrick Elias had a goal and two assists as the Devils dominated the game. Jason Arnott, Petr Sykora and Alexander Mogilny also scored for New Jersey.

New Jersey outshot Toronto 36-23, including 14-2 in the third period.

"It's not over," Maple Leafs coach Pat Quinn said. "That's why they play seven games. Hopefully, we can scramble back."

"We had our worst game of the playoffs, no doubt about that," Mats Sundin said. "Except Cujo, every one of us had a bad game. It's as simple as that."