Prudential Center —–The New Jersey Devils exhibited a glimpse of their former prowess, reminiscent of their record-setting performance from the previous season and their impressive playoff run. Yet, for this resurgence to matter, they must sustain it across the remaining 12 games of the regular season, or their playoff aspirations will remain elusive.
In a stunning 4-1 victory over the formidable Winnipeg, Jack Hughes showcased his prowess with two power-play goals, complemented by a stellar performance from his brother, Luke Hughes, who notched a career-high three assists. This triumph marks one of the Devils’ standout displays in what has otherwise been a disappointing campaign.
Interim coach Travis Green commended his team’s performance, emphasizing their structured, organized approach and sustained intensity throughout the game, which proved pivotal against a top-tier opponent like Winnipeg. Notably, New Jersey’s inability to string together more than three consecutive victories this season makes this win all the more significant.
Jack Hughes, buoyed by his two-goal haul that propelled his season tally to 23, acknowledged the team’s strong showing but stressed the importance of consistency moving forward, with the Devils currently trailing the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference by six points.
“Special teams won that game tonight for sure,” Hischier said. “Penalty kill was really strong, didn’t panic. I think they had a lot of O-zone time on the power play but we didn’t panic and kept them on the outside.”
Nico Hischier’s pivotal power-play goal, accompanied by two assists, played a crucial role in securing the victory, supported by Timo Meier’s empty-netter and two assists, and Jake Allen’s solid goaltending performance, making 18 saves.
The Devils’ special teams were instrumental in clinching the win, with an exemplary penalty kill and effective power-play execution thwarting Winnipeg’s advances. Despite Nikolaj Ehlers’ impressive individual effort for the Jets, Laurent Brossoit’s 37 saves couldn’t salvage their five-game winning streak.
Hischier’s go-ahead goal in the third period, combined with Jack Hughes’ subsequent tally and Meier’s clinching empty-netter, sealed the victory for New Jersey. Ehlers’ remarkable goal for Winnipeg showcased his elite skill set, but it wasn’t enough to alter the game’s outcome.
Jack Hughes broke the deadlock in the second period, capitalizing on a rebound from Hischier’s shot, while Ehlers equalized for the Jets with a sensational solo effort.
NEXT UP:
Looking ahead, the Jets will face the New York Islanders on Saturday as part of a five-game road trip, while the Devils will host Ottawa, concluding a three-game homestand.
