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Devils steal two points at home against Boston

Ice Hockey, New Jersey Devils, Professional

December 14, 2023

NEWARK, NJ - The Boston Bruins were in town on Wednesday to take on the Devils in an evenly fought matchup, resulting in the Devils winning 2-1 in overtime courtesy of Jack Hughes.

The first period started slowly, as it was a scoreless game for most of the initial 20 minutes. The Devils had one power play opportunity but failed to find the back of the net. At the 16:51 mark of the first period, the game's first goal was scored by Boston Bruins' Morgan Geekie. The score remained 1-0 for the rest of the first period. The Bruins led in shots 9-7.

New Jersey's play during the second period improved, but there were no goals to show for it. The Devils had a power play opportunity where they could not find the back of the net. Fortunately, the Devils killed the one power play the Bruins got in the period.

The Devils outshot the Bruins 11-7 during the second frame, but Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman was lights out. Vitek Vanecek was solid in the second period, making key saves to keep the Devils in the game.

Dawson Mercer found the back of the net two minutes into the third period after chaos ensued in front of the net. Haula and Holtz both picked up points as they assisted on Mercer's goal.

The rest of the third period stayed tied at one as the time ticked down in regulation as the Bruins and Devils moved into overtime.

There is nothing more exciting as a Devils fan than 3v3 overtime. With the star power of J. Hughes, Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, Mercer, Timo Meier, Luke Hughes and rookie Simon Nemec, there are opportunities for everyone to showcase their skills.

Hughes and Bratt, referred to as "peanut butter and jelly" by Hughes, were on the ice connecting as usual when Hughes ripped one past Swayman for the overtime game-winning goal.

Vanecek had a stellar performance as he stopped 23 of 24 shots, including some impressive saves on Bruins star David Pastrnak.

The Devils' offense was booming after a slow start, finishing the game with 35 shots.

The defense has been a vital part of the Devils' game as of late. Nemec continues to impress in his rookie season, proving why he should be an everyday NHLer. Kevin Bahl and John Marino had strong games as they were matched with the Bruins top line, shutting them down all night.