The New Jersey Devils continue to find a way to win.
After being down 1-0, New Jersey scored four unanswered goals with Jack Hughes and Ondrej Palat scoring two each. What was most impressive is the Devils quick strike offense. Three goals in 50 seconds in the second period. But credit the Vancouver Canucks by not giving up. Rick Tocchet’s group responded with three unanswered goals. But it was Devils persevering in overtime on the power play with Jesper Bratt’s game winning goal. The trio of Hughes, Bratt, and Dougie Hamilton have been clutch 3-on-3 in extra time all season long. Devils gained two points and now trail the Carolina Hurricanes 4 points in the Metropolitan Division.
Thoughts and Musings
1. Canucks defenseman Luke Shenn had a solid game and also scored a goal as well against the Devils. Devils need to bolster their blueline depth and Shenn would be an ideal candidate to come to New Jersey. The old cliche: Defense wins championship. Vancouver exposed the Devils defensive weaknesses which needs to be addressed.
2. “M.V.P.” chants by Devils fans for Jack Hughes at the Prudential Center was heard loud and clear as Hughes continues to tear up the NHL. Hughes is now third in the NHL with goals (35) trailing only Connor McDavid and David Pastranak. Hopefully the Hart Trophy voters won’t be stubborn and make the status quo pick in McDavid. Jack Hughes is the future. And the future is now. Keep reminding the voters Devils fans.
3. How about Miles Wood last night? He was drawing penalties, back checking, and looking more confident after having a mid-season slump.
4. Fabian Zetterlund is a player to watch out for down the stretch. He is having a good rookie campaign and added two assists last night. He could be a difference maker and is making good use of his playing time.
Bratt In The Hat
Need a new meme to post on other teams pages after the Devils win?