Devils and Rangers renew rivalry; Alex Semin’s agent speaks about his future (Playoff Puck Previews)

Game 1 Preview : New Jersey Devils at New York Rangers, 8 p.m. ET. The Battle of the Hudson will take place for the third time since the lockout beginning with Game 1 tonight at Madison Square Garden. The Devils and Rangers split their six-game regular season series which was highlighted by a March line brawl to open the game. The Rangers are coming off back-to-back seven-game series, while the Devils have had five days off. Will there be any signs of rust for New Jersey early on? And will New York look tired in Game 1 having eliminated the Washington Capitals on Saturday night?

Evening Reading

• Listen to  today's Marek Vs. Wyshynski here.

• Craig Custance talked to the agent for Alex Semin and told him that his client will be hitting the open market on July 1. A return to Washington doesn't sound like it's in the cards: "It was good while it lasted. With the lack of playoff success, with the direction they are going. They decided to change directions. That's within their rights. Alex doesn't fit into that system obviously." [ESPN]

• Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith is a hockey fan and sure knows how to play to a crowd. [Sean's Ramblings]

• Finland's Anssi Salmela was given a 3-game suspension for his hit from behind on Team USA's Alex Goligoski. [IIHF]

• Finally, is there anything better than video of general manager's getting upset watching their team in the press box? Example: George McPhee of the Washington Capitals from Game 7:

Puck Daddy Reader Comment of the Day: The Los Angeles Kings' Twitter feed continues it comedy reign:

"During practice Slava Voynovs stick snapped on a slapshot and flew into the stands. Sadly media personal [sic] were quick to get out of the way."

Bold Prediction: Devils grab Game 1 with a 2-1 win.