Devils Top Capitals 6-3 in Divisional Match Up

New Jersey Devils, Featured, Ice Hockey, Professional

January 4, 2024

WASHINGTON, DC - Captain Nico Hischier, Dawson Mercer and Michael McLeod all had two goals Wednesday night in the Devils’ 6-3 win over the Washington Capitals.

New Jersey started off strong as Hischier found the back of the net twice in the first period to put them up 2-0 before Capitals player Connor McMichael netted one. The Devils ended the first period up 2-1 on the Capitals.

Things were looking good for the Devils as Mercer got his first of the night during the second period, extending the Devils’ lead to 3-1. In typical Devils fashion, no win is an easy win for them. The Capitals scored twice after Mercer’s goal, tying the game at three each. Just 20 seconds later, McLeod put on a show and scored a goal-of-the-year caliber goal. The Devils ended the second period with a 4-3 lead on the Capitals.

The scoring did not stop there. In the third period, Mercer and McLeod both got their second goals of the night. Devils’ goaltender Nico Daws did not let another goal in during the third period.

Hischier, who’s birthday is Thursday, had an incredible night. He put up three points, 2G-1A, and passed teammate Jesper Bratt for 22nd all-time in Devils goals.

“We knew what was at stake here. It was a big game for us to start off the year right, and I think we played a good game,” Hischier said in his post-game interview.

Hischier was not the only Nico who put up some points tonight. Rookie goaltender Daws achieved his first NHL point on Hischier’s first goal of the night.

Although his save percentage is most likely not as good as he, and fans, would like it to be. Daws played a good game and continues to show why he can be an everyday NHL goalie someday. He saved 23/26 shots tonight with a save percentage of .885%.

Alex Holtz continues to impress as he put up another two assists tonight. No doubt one of the best games Holtz has had, getting into the dirty areas and making plays all night.

Erik Haula, Hischier and Mercer was a newly made line that excelled tonight. This line combined for four of the goals and a total of seven points.

Some more impressive stats from tonight's game are Mercer playing in his 200th NHL game, not missing a single game in his career. Jack Hughes, who had a quiet game but continues to make Devils history, reached 30 assists tonight faster than any player in Devils’ history. Luke Hughes continues his impressive rookie year as he has six points, 3G-3A, in his past four games.

The Devils are now 20-14-2 and play on Jan. 5 against the Chicago Blackhawks back at home at the Prudential Center.