As the season wound down, it was clear that the loser of this game would have the inside track on the first pick in the upcoming draft. The Devils trailed the Penguins 5-3 at the start of the third period. However, they rallied furiously, eventually winning on a goal by Gary McAdam, a veteran who had been recently reacquired by the Devils from Washington. When the season ended, The Devils held a three point lead over the last place Penguins - making the four point swing the margin needed for the Pens to claim their prize - the #1 overall pick. The Devils drafted second that year, taking a great player named Kirk Mueller, who would go on to become their captain and represent them in four all-star games. The Penguins, of course, selected Mario Lemieux, without whom there would be no Penguins. Just a little semi-forgotten history to warm us against the chill of winter. Cool fact -- Tom Glavine was the 69th overall pick in that same draft. He was selected by the Los Angeles Kings 25 picks behind Patrick Roy and 48 picks ahead of Brett Hull!
