After returning home from a successful road trip, the New Jersey Devils started up some home cooking. Their first course was the Pittsburgh Penguins in a crucial division matchup. With the teams fighting for every inch in the division and pushing for the playoffs, this was a pivotal matchup.
The game featured a good goaltending duel between Tristan Jarry and Vitek Vanecek, though Vanecek prevailed. The Devils would play into overtime for the third game in a row and secure the two points in a 2-1 victory.
Game Summary
First Period
The first period saw each team get on the scoreboard. Just 56 seconds into the opening frame, a breakout pass by Dougie Hamilton found Jack Hughes who ripped a shot from the top of the circle to open the scoring.
Six minutes later, it was the Penguins who would respond. After some great puck movement by the Penguins, Jeff Petry slid a pass over to Sidney Crosby for a one-timed blast past Vitek Vanecek. It was evenly contested the rest of the way, and both goalies stood tall and headed to the second period tied up at one.
Second Period
Both teams would get their looks, but both Tristan Jarry and Vitek Vanecek stood tall in the crease to keep the score tied at one. Despite being tied the Devils got out worked. Pittsburgh went on to outshoot New Jersey 12-2. The Penguins smothered New Jersey, but never solved Vanecek.
Third Period
The same as the second period, both goalies would shut the door and send the game to overtime. New Jersey played a better period, though, despite firing 12 shots on net, they never solved Jarry. Each team picked up a point for their solid efforts.
Overtime
It was the New Jersey Devils who emerged victoriously. While having an overtime power play, a pass by Jack Hughes set up Dougie Hamilton for a beautifully placed shot that got by Tristan Jarry. The Devils picked up an important two points.
Wrap Up
The New Jersey Devils defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 2-1 Jack Hughes hit the 30-goal mark for the first time in his young career. Hughes and Hamilton both scored a goal and had an assist, and Vanecek picked up the win. A good start to the two-game homestand for the Devils.
Game Notes
- Jack Hughes continues his elite play. He has nine points in his last five games, and has scored 10 goals in the month of January. His career season continues.
- Dougie Hamilton was a force in this game. Besides scoring the game winner, he was one of the best players on the ice. When on the ice, the team generated 25 chances and his relative Corsi-for percentage was a team leading +17.79. His impact was felt today.
- Vitek Vanecek was brilliant in net. He finished the game with 2.07 goals saved above expected and a .958 save percentage.
What’s Next?
The Devils homestand continues as they take on the Vegas Golden Knights Tuesday night.