In a playoff-like atmosphere with postseason implications, the New Jersey Devils (47-20-8) prevailed over the New York Rangers (44-21-10) 2-1. The Devils and Rangers played a tight, physical game where both teams showed their defensive mettle. The contest seemed like a tune-up for the playoffs, tensions flared at times and open space was at a premium.
Game Summary
First Period
The Devils had a very strong start to the first period. Erik Haula drew first blood at 5:17, deflecting a Dougie Hamilton shot past Igor Shesterkin.
Later on, K’Andre Miller took a tripping penalty at the 15:50 mark, giving the Devils their first man-advantage. Timo Meier capitalized at 17:03, dishing a pass to Jack Hughes, moving into the slot, and ripping the return pass from Hughes off a Ranger stick and past a confused Shesterkin.
The Devils played a good period overall, taking a 2-0 lead into the intermission.
Second Period
The teams played a much tighter second period, allowing few chances and closing up space. The division rivals got physical at times, often coming together after the play.
Despite this, it was Chris Kreider who put the Rangers on the scoreboard via the power play at the 13:24 mark. He capitalized on a misplay by Yegor Sharangovich and John Marino, both who couldn’t get the puck out of the defensive zone.
Both goalies played excellent this period, making some great saves to keep the score low. The Devils controlled much of the play this period, but their lead was cut down by one going into the second intermission.
Third Period
The Devils and Rangers went back and forth to start the third period, each once again playing relatively stifling defense. With the scoring remaining 2-1, the Rangers emptied their net and nearly tied it up on a great chance by Vladamir Taresenko. Though, Ryan Graves played the hero, sweeping the puck out of the open crease.
Despite the Rangers’ best efforts the Devils controlled possession yet again, leading them to a 2-1 victory.
Results
The Devils played a great all-around game. They played solid on defense, Vitek Vanecek shone in net, and they got just enough out of their offense to defeat the Rangers in a game they had to have. Now, they stand as Carolina’s greatest threat for the division crown.
The Devils now have a record of (47-20-8) and sit just one point back of the first-place Carolina Hurricanes in the Metropolitan Division with 102. The Rangers, on the other hand, own a 44-21-10 record and sit third in the Metropolitan with 98 points.
Game Notes
- Vitek Vanecek had a great game, posting a .960 save percentage on 25 shots. It was a step in the right direction for Vanecek, who will look to get hot before he has to be the fulcrum of the Devils’ playoff run.
- Timo Meier scored a powerplay goal playing in the bumper position, something he didn’t do much of in San Jose. He seems to be getting acclimated to the position nicely.
- Erik Haula had an eventful game, scoring a goal, but also taking two tripping penalties. Overall, he was very solid.
Up Next
The Devils will face the Chicago Blackhawks tomorrow at 8:00 PM ET.