A full arbitration docket is said to be the reason Scott Gomez’ salary award was delayed a second day yesterday, leaving the Devils and their top offensive center waiting and wondering.

The arbitrator who Friday heard Gomez’ case for a $7M salary and the Devils’ bid for a $4M award also is wrestling with the cases of Chicago’s Kyle Calder and Pitt’s Ryan Malone. Calder’s hearing was held yesterday.

The Devils are worried that Gomez’ award could put them over the $44 million cap, with Brian Gionta, David Hale, Paul Martin and others yet to sign.

Gomez can become an unrestricted free agent next summer.