DETROIT -- Devils coach John Hynes' usual daily communication with general manager Ray Shero will be amplified leading up to the March 1 trade deadline.

While the Devils are still intent on contending for a playoff spot, their play over the 28 days of February will dictate exactly what they do leading up to the deadline.

When it comes to personnel decisions and any potential moves, Hynes said Shero stays in close communication.

"In this stretch, we always communicate in player situations, if there's guys they're looking at, he'll ask for opinions from the coaching staff," Hynes said. "We'll have lots of discussions throughout the year, but there's certain when they get amped up. Trade deadline, free agency, things like that."

The main question entering the month is how the Devils will approach the deadline. Tuesday's 4-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings pulled the Devils within five points of a playoff spot, but they're still just two points ahead of the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Hynes acknowledged the Devils have struggled at times this season, but hopes to benefit from a favorable upcoming schedule, with the team home for nine off its 11 games in February. The Devils have no excuses if they can't find success in the coming stretch, but Hynes and the players remain unabashedly optimistic.

"We feel as a group, coaches and players, we have to be able to take advantage of the schedule and the opportunity, and make sure we're playing good hockey," Hynes said. "And if we are, hopefully we're putting tough decisions on the end of the month on which direction we're going to go."

Chris Ryan may be reached at cryan@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChrisRyan_NJ. Find NJ.com Devils on Facebook.