Devils Overcome Star Loss, Bratt Decides Overtime Against Canadiens
The New Jersey Devils faced another significant injury but managed to secure a victory in overtime against the Montreal Canadiens. Dougie Hamilton exited the game early in the second period due to injury, yet the Devils maintained a one-goal lead through the first half of the match.
Game Progression and Key Moments
Despite Hamilton's loss, the Canadiens seized the lead midway through the third period. The Devils responded by tying the game with about one minute left, pushing the contest into overtime.
Jesper Bratt emerged as the overtime hero, scoring the winning goal and earning the Devils two points on Thursday night.
Scoring Breakdown
- Early in the first period, Cody Glass put the Devils ahead 1–0 by collecting a loose puck in the neutral zone and scoring from the left circle on a breakaway.
- Montreal responded quickly with an unusual goal: Noah Dobson’s high wrist shot from the far side deflected off Kirby Dach, briefly obscuring the puck from goalie Jacob Markstrom, who was unable to stop it as it crossed the line.
Game Dynamics
Both teams scored on their initial shots. The game featured several minor penalties leading to four-on-four play. During one offensive opportunity, New Jersey's Luke Hughes lost the puck at the blueline to Montreal's Cole Caufield, who gained a breakaway chance.
"The Devils lost Dougie Hamilton just about five minutes into the second period. Despite the injury, they carried a one-goal lead into the second period."
Author’s summary: The New Jersey Devils showed resilience overcoming injury setbacks to earn a hard-fought overtime win against the Canadiens, highlighted by Jesper Bratt's decisive goal.