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Match Summary
Though it was a meaningless game for both teams, it was still a fun one as the Devils downed Boston in overtime. Everyone was dialed in and worked hard for the win against the class of the NHL in the Bruins. Pavel Zacha scored two and MacKenzie Blackwood stayed strong to lead New Jersey to the W. This game had everything: ups, downs, and some real exciting moments. Though they have been terrible at home this season, the Devils gave fans something to cheer about in this last home game.
First Period
I really liked how the Devils played early in the first; they drew penalties, built pressure, and scored a goal. Pavel Zacha was the scorer, assisted by Nico Hischier and Jack Hughes on the powerplay. After that, they slowed down quite a bit, allowing the Bruins to take over. Despite this, Boston couldnât score and the Devils went into the intermission up by one.
Second Period
The momentum didnât change in the second as the Bruins scored two unanswered goals. Notably, Taylor Hall shoveled in a rebound for a goal against his former team and his sixth with Boston. Down 2-1, New Jersey went into the locker room to regroup.
Third Period
If the Devils wanted to win, it would have to be in comeback fashion, which is exactly what happened. Jesper Boqvist tied the game at two midway through the period, but Boston answered back almost immediately with a Sean Kuraly goal. This blow would not kill them however, as Yegor Sharangovich brought the game to a tie once more. The excitement went down to the wire, but no one scored, and the game went into overtime.
Overtime
Jersey got some good chances off early in the extra frame and was even blessed with a powerplay soon after. Despite not capitalizing on this (what else is new), the Devils persevered and Pavel Zacha sealed the game with his second goal of the night.
Results
Overall, it was an intense game all around. Playoff picture aside, the lowly Devils successfully went toe-to-toe with one of the leagueâs best teams. Furthermore, this represents the fourth win in New Jerseyâs last five games, a surprising streak to say the least. After tonight, the Devils own a record of 18-28-7, seventh in the East Division. The Bruins are 31-14-7 and sit in third.
Keys to the Game
They Just Donât Quit!
After so many years of non-competitiveness at the Rock, it is extremely refreshing to have watched the hard-working Devils this season. The record doesnât show it, but this squad works their tail off, contrary to the apathetic teams of the past. As Iâve said many times, their possession metrics are good, itâs just a matter of all of it coming together. This game showed the progress this team has made this year, hopefully, they carry it over to next year.
Pavel Zacha
Itâs been a revelation of a year for the former first-round pick. Zacha has failed to live up to expectations for most of his career, but he sure has this season. He now has 14 goals and 18 assists for 32 points on the season. Something has clearly clicked for the young forward. He led the team to a win yesterday with his two goals. Oh, and the cherry on top: his overtime goal was a wicked backhander.
Up Next
The Devils will face the Islanders on Thursday at 7:00 pm.