Many members of the New Jersey Devils have started their offseason workouts but meanwhile in Albany, the club's AHL affiliate is gearing up for another deep run in the Calder Cup Playoffs. Last season, Coach Rick Kowalsky's crew surprised the AHL before falling to the Toronto Marlies in the final minutes of Game 7 of the AHL North Division Final, earning the Albany Devils bench boss the AHL Coach of the Year Award. This year the Devils will return to the playoffs for a matchup with the Marlies in the first round of the 2017 Calder Cup Playoffs. All Calder Cup Playoff games in the first round for the Albany Devils will be on
The One Jersey Network.
Here are the five keys to a successful playoff trip:
1.) The Cavalry Returns
The New Jersey Devils put a very high focus on getting their youngsters experience this season which should help pay dividends in Albany. Fourteen members of Albany's playoff squad will have appeared in an NHL game this season, combining for 55 points (22g-33a) in 281 games played. Miles Wood led the way with 17 points (8g-9a) in 60 games played. Steve Santini is expected to be the backbone of the blueline after 38 games in the NHL this season.
Five Keys: Albany Devils 2017 Playoffs Begin April 20
The Devils will look to familiar faces and past experiences during AHL playoff run