What used to be a certain two points for opponents of the Panthers has now become an almost certain trip to overtime against Mike Keenan’s team, whom the Devils face tonight in Sunrise, Fla.

The NHL leaders in OT games with 20 (3-8-9), the Panthers had played seven of their last 12 into the extra period, including Tuesday’s bout with the Red Wings.

Joe Nieuwendyk will be looking for his 500th NHL goal tonight after winning Tuesday’s 3-2 game against Montreal with a controversial third-period goal, his second of that game.

“I have felt better,” Nieuwendyk said after snapping an eight-game scoring drought. “Hopefully [Tuesday] will be a good springboard.”

On his winner, Montreal goalie Jeff Hackett was brushed by Jeff Friesen, sending the Canadiens into a rage that had six security guards outside the officials’ locker room at the Meadowlands.

Martin Brodeur has won 20 games this season, while Patrik Elias and Jamie Langenbrunner lead the Devils with 23 points.