Devils' Kinkaid starts in series opener vs. Lightning

The New Jersey Devils are sticking with the hot hand.

Netminder Keith Kinkaid will start Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday, coach John Hynes confirmed.

Kinkaid has taken over the Devils' net in recent months, usurping starter Cory Schneider, who missed significant time with injury and then struggled upon his return.

Schneider has dropped his last 12 appearances, his most recent victory coming against the Detroit Red Wings in late December.

Kinkaid's unbeaten in regulation in his last eight games, with a 7-0-1 record and a .931 save rate.

The Devils took all three games against the Lightning this season.