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Clemmensen, Devils look for strong defensive effort

Feb 11, 2009 - 12:04 PM NY Islanders (16-31-6) at New Jersey (34-17-3), 7:00 p.m. EST

NEWARK, New Jersey (Ticker) -- Martin Brodeur is nearing his return after being sidelined for an extended period. Fellow goaltender Scott Clemmensen has used the opportunity to play the best hockey of his career.

Looking to build off his first shutout of the season, Clemmensen will likely be in goal again as the Devils host the New York Islanders on Wednesday in a battle of Atlantic Division foes.

The 31-year-old Clemmensen took over as the starter for New Jersey when Brodeur suffered a torn distal biceps muscle on November 1. The career backup has not disappointed, going 23-11-1 with a 2.30 goals-against average, which ranks sixth in the NHL. His .920 save percentage ranks 11th.

Monday's shutout was Clemmensen's first in nearly five years, as he made 27 saves during a 3-0 victory over the New York Rangers. It marked his third career blanking and first since March 26, 2004.

All-Star Zach Parise has given Clemmensen plenty of offensive support this season. The 24-year-old scored a pair of goals Monday, matching his career-high of 32 set in 2007-08.

The Islanders have lost three in a row following a season-high four-game winning streak.

New York is coming off a 4-3 shootout setback to the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday, and has registered a point in just 10 of its last 30 games.