Keith Kinkaid was on the losing end of a 4-2 defeat last night in Toronto. –Getty Images
Game Summary
The Devils 3rd period comeback came up just short as they were defeated last night by a score of 4-2 in Toronto. The scoring opened with a John Moore wrist-shot early in the 1st period, but the Leafs grabbed a 2-1 lead by the end of the first on goals from Josh Leivo and William Nylander.
The 2nd period seemed as if it was the end to the Devils’ night as they were outshot 11-7 and were on the opposite end of the only goal of that period as JVR fired home his 23rd of the season.
In the 3rd period, the Devils pretty much controlled play as they were able to fire off 14 shots and scored the periods only natural goal on the power play. The goal was set up by a heavy screen in front courtesy of Joseph Blandisi, as John Moore fired home his 2nd of the game and 9th of the season. The Devils ultimately fell short as Connor Brown scored the empty-netter for the Leafs with 46 seconds left in the tilt.
Leafs goaltender Curtis McElhinney was credited with the win as he made 30 stops on 32 New Jersey shots and Keith Kinkaid was on the losing end, as he made 26 saves on 29 Toronto shots.
Game Notes
- The New Jersey Devils’ power play has been on an absolute tear since February as it’s been converting at an almost 40% rate. The power play generated one of the two Devils’ goals last night.
- It was an unusual night in terms of production by the Devils as their only two goals came via defensemen and what usually is their best line had a poor showing last night. The Hall-Zajac-Palmieri line combined for a +23/-55 corsi rating, which was the worst ranked Devils’ line last night.
- Joseph Blandisi continues to show Coach Hynes that he was wrong by not placing him with the club since the beginning of the season as he has 4 points (2G, 2A) in his last 5 games. Blandisi’s ability was on display once again last night as he was able to successfully screen Toronto’s goalkeeper which led to John Moore’s 2nd goal of the night. Blandisi, like a few other Albany call-ups, has made the most of his time with the NHL squad this year.
Next Devils Game: Saturday, March 25th @ The Rock, 7:00 PM vs. Carolina Hurricanes