Game Summary

Coming off a rough home-and-home with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the New Jersey Devils  defeated the Washington Capitals in a shootout for a 2-1 victory. The Devils got on the board first when P.A. Parenteau scored his team-leading 10th goal of the season after beating Braden Holtby early in the second period.

The Capitals were able to tie things up early in the third period when Daniel Winnik scored a short-handed goal to bring things back to where they started. The Devils were largely outplayed throughout this game, but Keith Kinkaid was spectacular as he made 43 saves on 44 shots throughout regulation and overtime. Without his performance, New Jersey would not have been able to grab two points.

Game Notes

• As mentioned above, Keith Kinkaid stood on his head last night. He made sprawling save after sprawling save and kept the Devils in a game where they were outplayed for most of the night. His performance last night brings his save percentage up to .929 for the season and almost surely earns him a second consecutive start when they conclude this home-and-home with Washington Saturday afternoon.

• For someone who was on waivers prior to the season, P.A. Parenteau has certainly made his impact felt for the Devils. He has 7 points in his last 9 games. Ray Shero gave up nothing to acquire him and with New Jersey’s playoff hopes seemingly out of reach, Parenteau should be able to fetch them a free draft pick or two once the trade deadline rolls around.

• Despite the win, it wasn’t all positive for the Devils. They were once again outshot and out-chanced. They were out attempted 54-34 at even-strength for the game. Washington also had 36 scoring chances as opposed to 15 for New Jersey in all situations. If Kinkaid didn’t have the night he did, it most likely would’ve been another brutal loss for NJ.

• While most of the Devils defensemen have struggled throughout the year, Damon Severson has been the exception and last night was no different. He was +12/-8 in shot attempts at even-strength and was the only Devil, defenseman or forward, to finish in positive territory for the game. He’s been one of the few bright spots for a much maligned blue line that continues to struggle.