NEWARK, N.J. — In a game on Sunday, Bo Horvat`s late second-period goal secured a 1-0 victory for the New York Islanders against the New Jersey Devils. Goaltender Ilya Sorokin was outstanding, stopping all 25 shots he faced.
Horvat capitalized on a Devils` pass attempt, intercepting Timo Meier`s pass and scoring his 28th goal of the season with just 57 seconds remaining in the second period. Sorokin`s stellar performance earned him his fourth shutout of the season and the 22nd of his career, improving his record to 30-23-6. This season marks the second time in Sorokin`s five NHL seasons that he has achieved 30 wins.
The Islanders faced a setback when defenseman Adam Pelech was forced to leave the game after a high hit from Devils` forward Paul Cotter. Cotter received a major penalty and was ejected from the game. Coach Patrick Roy had no updates on Pelech`s condition after the game.
After being eliminated from playoff contention the previous day, the Islanders bounced back from a three-game losing streak with this win. They had reached the playoffs in the past two seasons but were eliminated in the first round by Carolina both times.
This game marked the ninth time this season that the Devils have been shut out.
Devils` captain Nico Hischier had a late chance to tie the game but missed the net.
The Devils are heading to the post-season for the second time in three years and are set to play the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round. Two years prior, the Devils advanced past the first round against the Rangers but were then defeated by Carolina in the second round.
Devils goalie Jacob Markstrom made 21 saves in the game.
Key Points:
Devils: Their home record is now 19-16-5. Their road record is 22-16-2.
Islanders: Improved their road record to 16-17-7, achieving their first road win since March 18.
Turning Point:
Sorokin`s return from a three-game absence due to a lower body injury was impactful, delivering a perfect shutout performance after last playing when he conceded Alexander Ovechkin`s 895th career goal.
Stat to Note:
The Islanders have a 19-5-6 record when scoring the first goal and are 15-29-6 when conceding the first goal.
Upcoming Games:
Devils: Will play against the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.
Islanders: Will host the Washington Capitals on Tuesday.
