12. october 2008 / Patrik Elias has a great start to the new season

NJ Devils vs. NY Islanders 2-1 / Before the start of the first match Elias not only believed in himself, but in the whole team. The opening match on Friday night against the Islanders was, as he predicted, well played and the Devils got their first two points thanks to goals from Zach Parise and Patrik Elias. The goalkeeper, M.Brodeur, also put in a sterling performance and all three were made men of the match. 

PIT Penguins vs. NJ Devils 1-2 / On Saturday evening the Devils played away to the Penguins. Up to the end of the 3rd period the Devils had yet to score despite taking far more shots on M. A. Fleury's goal. This all came to a head in the 57th minute with a goal by Patrik Elias, tying the game at 1-1 in regulation.

Devils won the match in overtime with a goal from Z. Parise.

“I am glad that we got the maximum points in our first two games even though at the start we were a bit nervous due to the emotions and the weeklong pause in matches. But we had everything under control on Saturday. Although we didn't manage to use the initial chances, the team was patient and kept the desire to win,” said Elias at the end of the second match.