NEWARK, N.J. – In a Monday night NHL matchup, the New Jersey Devils secured a 3-2 shootout win against the Minnesota Wild, marking their third victory in the last four games. Paul Cotter and Jesper Bratt were the heroes of the shootout for the Devils.
During regulation time, Luke Hughes and Nico Hischier found the back of the net for the Devils. This win is their second consecutive against the Wild, following a 5-2 victory in Minnesota just days prior. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom was solid in net, stopping 27 shots.
For the Wild, Vinnie Hinostroza and Matt Boldy were the goal scorers. Despite their efforts, the Wild suffered their fourth loss in the last five games. Filip Gustavsson, the Wild`s goalie, made 26 saves.
In the decisive shootout, Cotter and Bratt successfully converted their attempts for the Devils. Boldy`s shot for the Wild hit the crossbar, sealing the win for New Jersey.
Hughes, the younger brother of injured Devils star Jack Hughes, initiated the scoring late in the first period with his seventh goal of the season.
Hinostroza leveled the score in the third period, but Hischier quickly responded, netting his team-leading 34th goal to regain the lead for New Jersey. However, Boldy answered back again for the Wild, tying the game and ultimately pushing it to overtime and a shootout.
Key Points:
Devils: The New Jersey Devils concluded March with eight wins out of sixteen games, reaching the 40-win milestone for the second time in the past three seasons. They are comfortably holding onto third place in their division.
Wild: The Minnesota Wild`s struggles on the road continued with this loss, marking their fifth in the last six road games. However, they still maintain a strong road record for the season.
Turning Point:
Markstrom`s crucial save in overtime against Jared Spurgeon of the Wild was a game-changer. This victory improves Markstrom`s record to 25-14-6 in his debut season with the Devils.
Stat to Note:
The Devils improved their home record to 18-13-5 and are set to play five of their remaining six games at home.
Looking Ahead:
The Wild are scheduled to play against the New York Rangers on Wednesday, while the Devils will also face the Rangers on Saturday, hosting them at home.
