Devils Overcome Star Loss, Bratt Downs Canadiens in Overtime
The New Jersey Devils endured another major setback but managed to prevail in overtime against the Montreal Canadiens. Despite losing defenseman Dougie Hamilton early in the second period, the Devils stayed composed and secured the win.
Jesper Bratt played hero in overtime, and the Devils took two points on Thursday.
Game Summary
The Devils gained an early advantage in the first period when Cody Glass picked up a loose puck in the neutral zone, rushed down the left side, and fired it into the net for a 1–0 lead. The Canadiens quickly answered with an unexpected strike: a high wrist shot by Noah Dobson deflected off Kirby Dach, catching goaltender Jacob Markstrom off guard as the puck floated over his shoulder into the goal.
Both teams capitalized on their first shots of the game and later exchanged minor penalties, leading to four-on-four play. During one sequence, Luke Hughes lost the puck at New Jersey's blue line, giving Cole Caufield a breakaway opportunity.
By midway through the third period, the Canadiens took the lead, but the Devils tied things up with less than a minute left in regulation, forcing overtime.
Injury Impact
Dougie Hamilton exited the game just five minutes into the second period after sustaining an apparent injury. Despite his absence, the Devils maintained strong defensive structure and found a way to rally late in the game.
Key Moments
- Cody Glass opened the scoring with a rush goal.
- Noah Dobson’s deflected shot equalized for Montreal.
- Luke Hughes’ turnover gave Caufield a breakaway chance.
- Jesper Bratt sealed the victory in overtime.
Author’s Summary
The Devils overcame injury adversity to claim a thrilling overtime win led by Jesper Bratt’s decisive performance.