“He’s playing well here,” said Brodeur of Jagr. “I relate a lot to him. I can have conversations with him that I can’t have with some of the younger players on this team.

“After losing Kovalchuk, we picked the right guy to help out the chemistry of the team. He’s going to be even better as the year goes on.”

Following the Devils’ 3-2 victory over the Rangers at MSG Tuesday night, 41-year old legend Martin Brodeur had nothing but praise for another 41-year old teammate. Future Hall Of Famer Jaromir Jagr, who was instrumental in setting up Dainius Zubrus’ game-winner. Both quotes are an example of what Jagr brings to a team. He’s a leader. His 14 points pace the Devils so far. It’s the intangibles that still make No. 68 one of the best teammates. A quality Brodeur has instilled throughout his career.