NEWARK -- Tuesday will begin a stretch of five games in nine days that will play a major role in determining the fate of the Devils. 

With four games against other Eastern Conference contenders -- the Ottawa Senators and New York Islanders -- for the final Wild Card spot, the Devils will be either right in the hunt or in bad shape following this stretch.

How Devils couldn't capitalize out of bye

The Devils also have the benefit of playing three of those four game against the Senators and Islanders at home.

Watch the video above where I talk about why the upcoming week is the most important of the season for the Devils, and why it will determine what the team does with the trade deadline approaching.

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

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