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Devils defenseman Anton Volchenkov (28) checks Toronto's David Clarkson into the end boards Friday night.

(John E. Sokolowski/USA Today)

TORONTO -- David Clarkson stood outside the visitors' dressing room in Air Canada Centre after his Toronto Maple Leafs completed a 2-1 shootout victory Friday night over his former Devils teammates.

One by one, several players came out to chat with Clarkson, who played against the Devils for the first time since he signed with the Maple Leafs last summer.



"It was different, obviously," Clarkson said. "It's always good when you win, but I think the Devils showed they're a great hockey team. I thought they played well. It was a hard-working game for both sides."

Clarkson exchanged handshakes with Anton Volchenkov, insisting he wasn't trying to run the defenseman at one point in the game. He chatted with Andy Greene and Mattias Tedenby, but spent most of his time with Martin Brodeur.

Clearly pumped up for the game, Clarkson had three quality scoring chances. He finished with two shots on goal but no points.

"When do you play us again?" Brodeur asked.

"I don't know," Clarkson answered.

"Sure, like you don't have it circled," Brodeur joked.

After staying as long as he could, Clarkson returned to the home dressing room as the Leafs prepared to fly to Boston.