Devils keeping positive ahead of clash vs. struggling Leafs

Two teams struggling to stay relevant in the playoff race will meet Wednesday night in Newark, N.J., when the Toronto Maple Leafs visit the New Jersey Devils.

The Maple Leafs are nine points behind the Boston Bruins for the final Eastern Conference wild-card slot. New Jersey sits two points behind Toronto, and both clubs have 21 games remaining.

Friday's NHL trade deadline is a more immediate concern than the postseason chase, since the Leafs and Devils already may be looking ahead to next season.